HSE inspection blitz

HSE inspectors will be targeting woodworking businesses throughout 2023/24. They are looking for evidence that employers have considered the control measures required to reduce workers’ exposure to wood dust; that workers understand the risks of exposure to wood dust; and that effective measures to protect them from harm are in place. A 2022/23 HSE inspection initiative found 78% of businesses were not compliant in protecting workers from respiratory sensitisers. As well as occupational asthma, exposure to wood dust can cause sino-nasal cancer and dermatitis.