Published on: 06 May 2021
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors are currently visiting fabricated metal businesses across the UK to ensure duty holders know the risks associated with welding fumes and metalworking fluids, and have controls in place to protect worker’s respiratory health.
World Asthma Day took place on 4 May, and worked to raise awareness of the risks of occupational asthma and the devastating impact lung disease has on workers’ lives.
Inspectors will be visiting businesses to check that welding work and the use of metalworking fluids are planned correctly to minimise risk. Additionally, they will be assessing if there are adequate control measures in place to protect workers’ health.
Businesses that cannot demonstrate safe working practices and up-to-date risk assessment (RA) and staff training in this area may be investigated by the HSE, and potentially fined or prosecuted.
See the links below for more information:
- Read how to manage risks from welding fumes here
- Register here for the Welding & Fumes Webinar
- Learn about occupational lung diseases and the symptoms