Spain publishes the official update of occupational exposure limit values

The National Institute for Safety and Health at Work (INSST) has released the new 2026 edition of the occupational exposure limit values for chemical agents. The update includes important revisions to the environmental limit values (VLA), biological limit values (VLB) and several changes linked to recent European directives. These modifications have a direct impact on hygienic assessment, preventive planning and the management of chemical substances across numerous industrial sectors.

Environmental limit values: revisions in tables 1 and 2

In this edition, the INSST introduces relevant adjustments to the environmental limit values.

In table 1, the following values have been updated:

• Asbestos
• Benzene
• Vinyl cyanide
• Nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide, specifically for underground mining and tunnel construction activities

In addition, the entry corresponding to 1,2,3 trichloropropane has been removed, as current scientific evidence indicates that its previous value requires revision before being reinstated.

In table 2, further significant changes are introduced. The INSST updates the limit values for:

• Diisocyanates
• Ethylbenzene
• Formamide
• Lead

These updates reflect the incorporation of several recent European directives into the Spanish document. Among them, Directive (EU) 869/2024 stands out, revising lead limit values and establishing, for the first time, a binding limit value for diisocyanates. The document also incorporates amendments from Directive (EU) 2023/2668, which updates requirements for worker protection against asbestos under Directive 2009/148/EC.

Finally, the INSST updates substance classifications included in Directive 197/2024 and Directive 2364/2025, both related to amendments of the CLP Regulation. In all cases, their integration ensures regulatory consistency with obligations applicable throughout the European Union.

Biological limit values: benzene updated, lead and ethylbenzene added

Regarding biological limit values, the 2026 edition introduces updates in two tables:

• Table 3 revises the biological limit value for benzene.
• Table 4 incorporates new biological values for lead and ethylbenzene, with entry into force expected in the coming years, strengthening health surveillance in activities involving exposure to these agents.

Additional updates

The publication also includes other complementary adjustments:

• A complete update of Chapter 7.
• The incorporation of note n, extending the technical guidance provided in the document.

These modifications improve the internal consistency of the text and update criteria related to the assessment of specific exposure situations.

At Siam we support Spanish companies in correctly adapting to the changes published by the INSST for 2026. Through our tool, Chemeter, we help integrate the new VLA and VLB into Safety Data Sheets, ensuring updated compliance aligned with Spanish legislation and the latest European directives applicable to chemical agents.

The full document can be consulted on the official website of the National Institute for Safety and Health at Work (INSST).