HSE updates Infections / biological hazards at work
8 May 2026
HSE has published extensively improved guidance on managing infection risks and biological hazards in workplaces.
The guidance has been refreshed as part of a routine update programme across the whole HSE website. It will help employers identify biological hazards that may be present in their workplace and provides practical advice on carrying out risk assessments.
The new site structure will make it easier for people to find and understand the guidance they need, depending on their type of workplace and the sort of risks that may occur.
The updated site includes:
- an introduction to biological hazards at work
- an overview of the law on infections at work
- information on preventing incidental exposures to biological agents and infections
- guidance on safe deliberate work with biological agents
- information for workers on how they should be protected from infection at work
- guidance on pandemic preparedness and response
Outdated content and information not directly relevant to workplace settings have been removed and the revised guidance now features:
- a streamlined structure to improve usability and navigation
- extensive links to related HSE resources, embedded in the webpages
- clear signposting to authoritative clinical sources, including the NHS and the UK Health Security Agency
Visit the refreshed guidance on infections and biological hazards at work.
Access the HSE Approved List of Biological Hazards and their classification here......................