Sadly, the EU is not a level playing field, with some countries ignoring directives/obligations when it suits them - with impunity.

Health and Safety regulations - for example - don't really exist in Malta and Spain, where builders often don't bother with scaffolding.

Your EHIC card in these countries often won't get you the mandatory medical treatment that you are entitled to, either. That is - the same as that available through the NHS.

Many other EU members adopt similar attitudes - unlike the UK which fulfills all its obligations. Perhaps Brexit isn't such a bad decision after all.

The EU follows up flouting of EU law with treaty infringement proceedings, and the UK has been the subject of those, e.g. November infringements package: key decisions.

"In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission ('Commission') is pursuing legal action against Member States for failing to comply with their obligations under EU law. These decisions, covering various sectors and EU policy areas, aim to ensure the proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses.
…

The Commission decided today to send a letter of formal notice to the United Kingdom for failing to comply with EU rules on free movement of workers … The UK has two months to reply to the letter of formal notice; otherwise, the Commission may decide to send a reasoned opinion."

Infringement procedure

Also from the same link:

"Today, the Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to the United Kingdom for failure to carry out checks and ensure compliance with the conditions for recognition of fishery producer organisations.
…
A letter of formal notice was also sent to the UK concerning the Isle of Man's abusive VAT practices with regard to supplies and leasing of aircraft."

absolutely shocking to read that builders have slack practices in the EU.

Never happen in Britain of course.

Grenfell Tower: Hundreds of buildings still have 'unsafe' cladding
www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-48609595

Jo wrote:
Isle of Man's abusive VAT practices with regard to supplies and leasing of aircraft

Jo, thanks for the data.

Never been to the Isle of Man, which has an unusual UK status.

Lewis Hamilton was there once - but only to land his new plane.

After signing the necessary tax evasion forms, he quickly flew off - in less than an hour.

IoM officials even made sure he never had to leave the airport.


On a Sunday, just for the most modest fee...