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University Fined £280k Over 15-Year Lab Allergen Exposure
2 May
Summary
- University fined £280,000 for worker exposure to animal allergens.
- Two staff members developed lifelong asthma and other conditions.
- Failure to control risks spanned 15 years until last year.
Cardiff University was fined £280,000 on April 30, 2026, at Cardiff Magistrates' Court following a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation. The university failed to properly control risks associated with animal allergens in laboratories for a 15-year period, from 2008 until last year. This prolonged exposure led to two members of staff developing occupational asthma and other lifelong respiratory conditions.
One affected employee described "terrible" breathing difficulties, a third decline in lung function, and struggles with everyday activities like walking and talking. They require daily medication to manage their condition. The HSE cited the university's breach of health and safety legislation for failing to identify and implement necessary controls to protect workers.
In response, Cardiff University apologized to the impacted staff and acknowledged the failure to adequately protect employees during that specific period. The university stated that the identified issues have since been addressed through significant improvements following an HSE improvement notice. They assured that current staff safety is not a concern and the fine does not impact their operational capabilities.
