The HSE has launched a series of inspections across motor vehicle repair businesses throughout the UK. Focusing on the occupational asthma risks how effectively they’re protecting workers from isocyanate exposure which is one of the leading cause of occupational asthma in the UK.
These visits aim to ensure that garages and bodyshops have the right controls, procedures, and monitoring systems in place to protect and safeguard employees’ health. Going forward inspectors will be checking everything from spray booth ventilation and personal protective equipment (PPE) to health surveillance records and training standards.
As you maybe aware, isocyanates are powerful chemicals found in many paints, lacquers, coatings, and finishes used in vehicle repair. When they are inhaled, even in small amounts, they can cause serious respiratory problems. Unfortunately, many skilled vehicle paint sprayers develop occupational asthma each year, a condition that can potentially end their careers and impact their quality of life permanently.
Employers are expected to demonstrate that they are effectively controlling exposure through:
For more information about the HSE inspections and risks, recommended control measures, and how to monitor workers’ health, visit the HSE website