University fined £280,000 after employees develop occupational asthma

The following is an abridgement of an article originally published by the HSE Press Office.

Incident Summary

A university was fined £280,000 after two employees developed occupational asthma due to prolonged exposure to animal allergens in the workplace.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that between 2008 and 2025, the employer failed to identify and implement suitable controls to prevent exposure. Both affected employees sustained lifelong conditions, with one unable to continue in their employment.

According to a statement from one of the affected employees, their lung function permanently decreased by 33 percent, resulting in severe breathlessness and reliance on steroid inhalers, nasal sprays, and bronchodilators.

Legal Outcome

The HSE investigation determined the university failed to establish adequate protective measures, despite the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations being in place since 1989 and specific guidance for laboratory animal workers being available since 2011.

The university pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. It was fined £280,000 and ordered to pay £11,745 in costs at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on 30 April 2026.

Inspector’s Comment

HSE inspector Janet Hensey stated,

"This was a case of [the university] failing to properly deal with very real risks to employees working with animals and not putting suitable controls in place to prevent exposure.
The fact this went on for 15 years is truly concerning.
Occupational asthma is a recognised work-related disease with potentially disabling consequences.
HSE will not hesitate to take action against organisations, which do not do all that they can to keep people safe."