European Commission further develops its plans.

In mid-July, the European Commission launched the second-phase consultation with European social partners on the planned Quality Jobs Act. The initiative aims at adapting European rules on working conditions, occupational safety and health (OSH), and the enforcement of workers' rights to new developments in the world of work, while at the same time strengthening the competitiveness of businesses. Social partners may submit their views until 28 September.

Reconciling different positions

The consultation builds on the first phase (see DSV News 2/2026) and further develops the analysis in four key areas: algorithmic management and artificial intelligence at work; OSH; the protection of workers in subcontracting chains; and the just transition.

However, the feedback received so far from the twelve trade unions and 22 employers' organisations reveals significant differences of opinion. While trade unions are calling for new European minimum standards, employers' organisations primarily advocate better implementation of existing rules and the reduction of administrative burdens. The only area of broad agreement is the need for more effective enforcement of existing legislation. In its analysis and policy options for the second phase, the European Commission seeks to accommodate these differing perspectives.

Future-proofing OSH

The European Commission sees particular scope for modernisation in relation to new forms of work and increasingly prevalent workplace risks. Its proposals focus primarily on the Workplace Directive and the Display Screen Equipment Directive. Key elements include extending their scope to telework and other off-site workplaces, as well as revising definitions and areas of application so that laptops, tablets and other portable devices are also covered.

In addition, the Workplaces Directive is to be revised to take into account heat- and weather-related risks explicitly. Further considerations relate to the removal of existing exemptions – such as those for agricultural work – and greater consideration of the needs of women and particularly vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities.

Managing digitalisation and complexity

The increasing use of algorithmic management systems raises questions regarding transparency, human oversight and the protection of workers. According to the European Commission, many of these issues can be addressed through better implementation of existing legislation, including the AI Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). In addition, targeted amendments and guidance development are being considered.

The European Commission also sees a need for action in the area of subcontracting. Long and complex subcontracting chains and labour intermediaries increase the risk of abuse, particularly in sectors such as construction, logistics, meat processing, hospitality and cleaning services. Measures under discussion include strengthening liability rules, carrying out more targeted inspections in high-risk sectors, and improving information for workers on their rights and OSH.

Outlook

Given the complexity of the Quality Jobs initiative, the European Commission explicitly considers it possible that the final package will consist of a combination of binding and non-binding instruments. The choice of instruments will largely depend on the views submitted by the European social partners and the outcome of the Commission's further impact assessments. Greater clarity is expected by the end of the year, when the European Commission intends to present the Quality Jobs Act.