The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published new sector specific guidance on controlling exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) when working with engineered stone, alongside a nationwide inspection campaign targeting fabricators and related businesses. These developments represent a significant and deliberate shift in regulatory expectations, with clear implications for dutyholders under COSHH.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently prosecuted Cardiff University following a serious failure to manage workplace exposure risks, resulting in a £280,000 fine after two employees developed occupational asthma.

European Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall has confirmed that the Commission does not intend to reopen REACH at this stage, signalling a clear shift away from a full legislative revision of the EU’s core chemicals framework.

On 3 February 2026, the UK Government published its first dedicated strategy for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), titled ‘PFAS Plan: building a safer future together’. This marks a significant milestone in UK chemicals policy. For the first time, the UK Government has set out a long‑term, coordinated framework for understanding, managing and reducing risks from these highly persistent substances, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’.

In December 2025, the Swedish Customs Service (Tullverket) reported that it inspected nearly 1.7 million imported products during the first eleven months of the year, preventing more than 700,000 from entering Sweden and the wider EU market. Of these, around 500,000 were destroyed rather than returned, underlining the seriousness of the risks identified.