2 April Isocyanate inspections in progress for vehicle repair businesses The HSE has recently reminded us of its programme of targeted inspections of motor vehicle repair businesses across Great Britain, with inspectors visiting workshops to check safe paint spraying practices where isocyanate-containing coatings are used. With around 1,000 inspections planned, this is a clear signal that isocyanate control is a current enforcement priority. Not only that, but it is also a reminder that the health risks are preventable when the right systems are in place. What is the risk? Isocyanates are used in many industrial products, but they are especially common in vehicle refinishing through 2-pack (2K) paints, coatings and lacquers. When sprayed, these products can create a fine, invisible mist that spreads quickly and can reach harmful concentrations in minutes. The primary concern is occupational asthma. The HSE identifies isocyanates as the leading cause of occupational asthma in the UK, and once someone becomes sensitised, even very small exposures can trigger severe attacks, often ending their ability to work with these products. Skin exposure is also a concern, as contact can cause dermatitis and may contribute to respiratory sensitisation. Importantly, this isn’t only a sprayer risk: people working nearby can be exposed if mist escapes the spray area or clearance procedures aren’t followed. What are the inspectors looking for? HSE’s campaign highlights three areas where vehicle repair businesses commonly fall short: Spray booth/room ventilation (LEV) and containment: booths should have effective extraction and operate under slight negative pressure to prevent mist leaking into the wider workshop. Correct respiratory protection: sprayers must use air-fed breathing apparatus; filtering respirators are not considered adequate for isocyanate spray mist and vapours during spraying. Safe clearance procedures: clearance times must be measured, displayed, and followed so nobody enters too early or removes RPE too soon COSHH Under The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, employers must not only control exposure but also verify that controls are effective through health surveillance and exposure monitoring. HSE highlights health surveillance for workers at risk of inhalation and skin contact exposure and recommends biological monitoring (urine testing) as a practical way to check whether isocyanate is getting into the body. Furthermore, under updates to the COSHH regulations, it is now a legal requirement for those working with isocyanates to be provided with, and to attend suitable awareness training. Ensuring training is suitable documented and easily accessible are important considerations during an inspection period. Getting the right support If your workplace sprays coatings, uses 2K products, or works near spray operations, now is the time to review your controls and competence. LRB Consulting Ltd can help you strengthen compliance through air sampling/monitoring support and isocyanate awareness training, giving you confidence that exposure is controlled, staff understand the risks, and systems stand up to scrutiny. Get in touch with LRB Consulting Ltd to discuss air sampling options or to book isocyanate awareness training tailored to your team and processes.