We are calling on professional conservator-restorers to share data and evidence to support our sector’s response to the forthcoming HSE consultation on lead-in-blood level regulations.
Your input is vital to ensure that our response accurately represents current working conditions, existing mitigation measures, and realistic targets for safe and sustainable practice in the heritage sector.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is planning to revise the thresholds for lead exposure, following growing evidence that even low levels of lead in the blood can pose significant health risks. While we fully support efforts to reduce exposure wherever possible, it is crucial that any new regulations are achievable and evidence-based, particularly in areas where lead use is unavoidable.
However, we are concerned that the proposed reductions may not be achievable in the heritage sector, where lead use is often essential - for example, in stained glass, the built environment, and other areas of conservation practice. We are also concerned that the proposed limits could have a disproportionate impact on women in the workforce, as the reduced thresholds could make it difficult or impossible for them to continue working in certain roles.
The proposed levels are:
The HSE is expected to launch a formal consultation on these changes in late 2025. To ensure that any response from the heritage sector is evidence-based and accurately represents current practice, we need robust data on existing lead exposure levels, mitigation measures, and realistic alternatives.
We are therefore asking practitioners to complete a short survey by Friday 28 November. Your input will help us develop a strong, data-driven response that reflects the realities of conservation work.
If you have any questions or comments, please get in touch by emailing [email protected]
Privacy Notice
This survey collects limited personal information to understand lead exposure monitoring and mitigation practices within the heritage sector. All data will be anonymised; the names of individuals and businesses are required only to monitor and manage response data.
Your responses will be used solely for research, policy, and consultation purposes and handled in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Icon Privacy Policy.
Participation is voluntary. Please avoid including names or identifiable details in free-text responses about individual workers.
Personal data (such as contact details) will be stored securely and retained only as long as necessary to complete the consultation and follow up with participants (up to 5 years). You may withdraw consent or request data deletion at any time by contacting [email protected].
For full details of how your information is used and your data rights, please see Icon’s Privacy Policy.