Industrial Enzymes

Enzymes are considered to be hazardous substances and should be controlled according to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). Many types of enzymes are increasingly being used to replace chemicals in a wide range of processes and industries. Proteases, lipases and amylases are widely found in cleaning products and can cause allergic reactions in workers, such as sneezing and coughing, as well as more serious symptoms such as tightness of the chest and shortness of breath. These symptoms can be delayed so may occur after working hours, making the occupational connection less obvious. Enzymes are also present in some improver dusts used in baking.

We offer a range of largely functional, activity-based assays to help identify enzymes, allowing effective measures to be taken where workers are exposed. Increasingly, we are investigating the use of specific immunoassay methods for such enzymes, with for example the recent introduction of an immunoassay for Subtilisin Carlsberg, a protease with an occupational exposure limit in many countries, including the UK.

Practical advice and guidance on COSHH is available on our website here. Information for employers includes what the law requires and advice on completing COSHH assessments.