Is Dust Extraction a Legal Requirement?

Yes, according to HSE, The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 places general duties on employers to ensure that people are not exposed to unnecessary risks to their health or safety arising from the employer's work activities. Dust in the workplace requires general principles of protection from dust.

In addition, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 2002 Regulations were established to protect workers from exposure to hazardous materials. (Asbestos and lead are not covered by COSHH as they have their own separate regulations). COSHH helps employers control risks by providing a framework underpinned by a risk assessment.

Other legal requirements include alignment with the Atex Regulations if handling explosive dusts or gasses and the Environmental Protection Act which deals with limits on how much contaminant is allowed to be discharged to atmosphere from various industrial processes.