What is this document?
INDG95 is HSE guidance that focuses specifically on respiratory sensitisers and their control under COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations). It explains how certain substances can cause permanent damage to the respiratory system and lead to occupational asthma.
The document provides practical guidance on identifying respiratory sensitisers in your workplace and taking appropriate steps to prevent your employees from developing sensitisation or asthma.
Who needs to read this?
- Employers who use substances that can cause respiratory sensitisation
- Manufacturing businesses working with chemicals, paints, adhesives, or resins
- Bakeries and food production where flour dust is present
- Healthcare settings using latex gloves or certain cleaning agents
- Woodworking businesses exposed to certain wood dusts
- Health and safety managers responsible for COSHH compliance
- Anyone managing workplaces where employees may inhale hazardous substances
Key points covered
What are respiratory sensitisers?
Respiratory sensitisers are substances that can cause the immune system to react abnormally. Once sensitised, even tiny amounts of the substance can trigger asthma symptoms, including:
- Wheezing and breathlessness
- Chest tightness
- Coughing
Sensitisation is usually permanent. Once affected, workers may never be able to work with that substance again.
Common respiratory sensitisers
- Isocyanates (found in paints, foams, and adhesives)
- Flour and grain dust
- Wood dust (especially hardwoods)
- Latex proteins
- Laboratory animals
- Certain enzymes and chemicals
Employer duties under COSHH
- Identify which substances in your workplace are respiratory sensitisers
- Assess the risk of exposure to your employees
- Prevent exposure where reasonably practicable
- Control exposure using the hierarchy of controls
- Provide health surveillance where there is a reasonable likelihood of exposure
- Train employees on the risks and control measures
How this applies to you
Start by checking your safety data sheets for any substances marked as respiratory sensitisers. Look for hazard phrases such as "May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled" (H334).
Where respiratory sensitisers are used, you should aim to eliminate or substitute them with safer alternatives. If this is not possible, implement strict controls including:
- Enclosed processes or local exhaust ventilation
- Correct respiratory protective equipment
- Good housekeeping to prevent dust accumulation
- Regular health surveillance for exposed workers
Early detection through health surveillance can prevent permanent damage. If an employee shows signs of sensitisation, remove them from further exposure immediately.
For more detailed guidance on managing hazardous substances, see our COSHH topic guide. You should also review our guidance on COSHH assessments and workplace exposure limits.
Read the official document: INDG95 on HSE website
Disclaimer: This summary is for general information only. Always refer to the official HSE publication for authoritative guidance. Workplaces with respiratory sensitisers should seek specialist occupational health advice.