13/01/2026
Workers at an engineering firm were put at risk of serious ill-health after their employer ignored repeated warnings about unsafe metalworking fluids.
Following a routine inspection, our inspectors found workers at Tracel Ltd were being exposed to metalworking fluid mist. This can cause lung disease, asthma, and dermatitis.
We served formal Improvement Notices requiring the company to carry out proper risk assessments and put controls in place.
When we returned, nothing had changed. Hazards still weren't identified. Risks weren't controlled. Fluid quality wasn't maintained.
HSE Inspector Stephen Manley: "This case was entirely avoidable had the company taken appropriate action following our inspection."
Poor management of metalworking fluids still leads to workers developing lung disease. If you use these fluids, review your arrangements now.
Read more:https://press.hse.gov.uk/2026/01/13/engineering-firm-fined-27200-after-endangering-workers/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social+&utm_campaign=prosecution-push