2025 HSE Compliance Wake-Up Call: Automotive Isocyanates Awareness
Posted by Express Paints Ltd on 24th Oct 2025
The Illusion of Compliance
Most accident repair and smart repair businesses think they’re compliant because they “have a booth” or “wear masks.”
The truth? 90% wouldn’t pass a surprise HSE inspection today.From isocyanate exposure to waste storage, the rules are getting tighter and inspectors are targeting small repairers, mobile smart vans, and paint distributors more aggressively than ever.
Why it matters:
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HSE classifies isocyanates as a leading cause of occupational asthma.
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Simple paperwork gaps or expired tests are enough to fail an inspection.
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Fines can start at £163 per hour of inspector time, plus prosecution costs.
The Real Cost of Getting Caught
HSE don’t just “warn” you — they charge you for the privilege.
Fee for Intervention (FFI):
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£163 per hour (as of 2025)
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Average visit = 5–7 hours → £800–£1,100 bill
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Add remedial work, downtime, potential fines — you’re easily looking at £3,000+ for what could’ve been prevented by a £50 LEV check or proper record.
Recent Enforcement Activity – Real Garages, Real Notices”
⚠️ In the Last 12 Months (HSE Public Record):
| Business | Location | Notice Type | Key Failing | Date | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Auto’s Ltd | Plymouth, Devon | Improvement Notice | Spray-booth LEV not examined within 14 months; separate DSEAR flammables failings | 23 May 2025 | HSE Resources |
| AM Restorations (UK) Ltd | Plymouth, Devon | Improvement Notice | No LEV examination; missing health surveillance for isocyanate exposure | 20 Jan 2025 | HSE Resources |
| Micheldever Tyre Services Ltd | Ashford, Kent | Improvement Notice | Failure to thoroughly examine LEV controlling exhaust fumes (carcinogen) | 27 Jun 2025 | HSE Resources |
| SPEED AUTOS LIMITED | Perivale, West London | Improvement Notice | LEV not examined; no health surveillance for isocyanate users | 4 Nov 2024 | HSE Resources |
| DMO Motors Ltd | Greenwich, London | Improvement Notice | Inadequate control of isocyanate paint spraying (no enclosure/LEV) | 29 Dec 2023 | HSE Resources |
| Motor Depot Ltd t/a CarSupermarket.com | Hull | Improvement Notice | Failure to control isocyanate exposure in mixing room | 23 Jun 2025 | HSE Resources |
| Globe Motor Vehicle Specialists Ltd | Manchester | Prohibition Notice | Spraying isocyanate paints without valid LEV examination | 8 Aug 2024 | HSE Resource |
Other Recent Real-World Cases (clickable)
| Case | Year | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Bodyshop fined £20,000 for COSHH breach | 2015 | AM-Online |
| Dealership fined £204,000 after employee illness | 2025 | Bodyshop Magazine |
| HSE launches inspection campaign for MVR sites | 2025 | HSE Press Office |
Self-Audit Reality Check
| Question | Common Failure |
|---|---|
| LEV certificate in date? | Certificate expired or missing |
| RPE flow-tested weekly? | No flow meter or no record |
| Health surveillance current? | No OH provider or outdated test |
| Waste sealed & labelled? | Open tins, no hazardous labels |
| COSHH assessments current? | Generic or unsigned |
| SDS folder complete? | Old versions or not accessible |
Take Action Now
“If you answered ‘No’ or ‘Not Sure’ to any of these, you’re already non-compliant.”
Express Paints Support Includes:
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COSHH & HSE Compliance Master Pack
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Smart Repair FAQ
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Self-Audit Guide & Maintenance Calendar
As we approach the 2025 HSE compliance changes, it’s crucial for the automotive industry to prioritize isocyanate awareness. Understanding the health risks, adhering to regulations, and implementing best practices will go a long way in ensuring employee safety. Don’t wait for an incident to occur; take proactive steps to elevate your business environment today. For detailed information about HSE compliance and isocyanates, visit the official HSE website and start preparing your team for the necessary changes.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level of safety and compliance? Act now!