“Whilst some of the changes introduced in this version of EH40/2005 may not have come as a surprise to many, the actual implementation of any required changes to an organisations occupational hygiene strategy might be complex. Business will need support in implementing any revised WELs in order to protect workers from the ill-health effects of exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace.

“The food and manufacturing industries will be particularly affected by the changes, relating specifically to new WELs around diacetyl for the former and Manganese, Carbon monoxide Nitrogen dioxide and Nitrogen Monoxide for the latter.

“We would therefore encourage employers to review to the new and revised limits included in the latest WELs guidance in detail – published on the HSE website – in order to fully understand how it might affect their organisation and employees. Any changes that would be required in order to ensure compliance with health and safety legislation associated with hazardous substances, such as COSHH and Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, would need to take effect immediately, in order to safeguard employee wellbeing.”

Bureau Veritas supports businesses in managing potential exposure risks and controlling health hazards that may arise from physical or chemical agents within a workplace environment, through its team of professional occupational hygienists.

For more information, please call 0345 600 1828 or email info@uk.bureauveritas.com. Alternatively, please visit www.bureauveritas.co.uk.