How Proactive Health and Safety Saved One Business from Fines

When a concern was raised about a fabrication workshop’s paint spraying activities, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) stepped in. An urgent email arrived citing the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, warning of potential risks from airborne fumes and demanding a response. For many businesses, that kind of message can lead to sleepless nights, enforcement action, and even fines.

But in this case, the outcome was different.

The challenge
​The HSE had been told that the workshop was carrying out metal painting without a dedicated spray booth, potentially exposing workers and neighbours to hazardous levels of fumes. Officials wanted confirmation that proper controls were in place and that staff were protected with the right personal protective equipment (PPE).
It was a serious moment. The business had just days to show it was complying with the law.

The response
Instead of scrambling, the workshop’s health and safety consultant was able to respond immediately with detailed evidence. Years of proactive investment in safety meant the systems were not only in place but well documented.
The response outlined:

• A dedicated spray room with its own extraction system, completely separated from other work areas.
• Local exhaust ventilation and mechanical ventilation, maintained and inspected at required intervals.
• Full COSHH assessments for all paints, solvents, and coatings used on site.
• Air-fed respiratory protection, with breathing air quality tested to the latest EN12021 standard.
• Stocks of PPE, including gloves, goggles, and protective clothing, issued in line with risk assessments.
• Regular health surveillance, including respiratory monitoring and occupational health checks.
• An up-to-date Health & Safety Policy and risk assessments covering all spraying operations.

The result
After reviewing the evidence, the HSE confirmed it would take no further action. The business had demonstrated not only that controls existed, but that they were being monitored, recorded, and reviewed.
In other words, proactive health and safety saved the business from what could have been a costly and damaging enforcement process.

Why it matters
Too often, companies only act when regulators knock on the door. But by then, it may already be too late. Fines, improvement notices, or even prosecutions can follow if businesses can’t show compliance.
This case shows the opposite. With competent advice, a planned approach, and proper documentation, a concern that could have escalated into a fine was resolved quickly and cleanly.

Key takeaway
Health and safety isn’t just a box to tick. Done properly, it’s a shield that protects your people and your business.
When the regulator calls, evidence is everything. If you can prove that risks are controlled, equipment is maintained, and workers are protected, the difference can be dramatic: no further action versus financial and reputational damage.

​Proactivity pays.

For more information on COSHH and what we can offer see our COSHH page 
https://www.wtconsultancy.co.uk/coshh-risk-assessment.html