Buckingham food manufacturer fined £120k for endangering workers
Employees exposed to hazardous dust and risky manual handling
Last updated 23rd Jul 2026
A food manufacturer in Buckingham has been fined £120,000 after failing to protect employees from hazardous dust exposure and unsafe manual handling practices.
Milton Keynes Magistrates’ Court heard that an HSE inspection on 3rd December 2024 revealed dangerous levels of inhalable dust at Puratos Limited, posing a risk of occupational asthma. The investigation found dust escaping from machinery due to leaks, the use of compressed airlines for dust management, and dry sweeping using brushes and brooms.
Subsequent dust monitoring on 18th December 2024 confirmed that workers were exposed to dust levels exceeding HSE's workplace exposure limits.
The inspection also highlighted manual handling risks, with workers regularly lifting 25kg sacks of ingredients, leading to potential musculoskeletal injuries—a practice that should be minimised wherever possible.
HSE has been conducting inspections across large bakeries since January 2026, focusing on protecting workers from dust hazards, including flour dust. The Buckingham manufacturer had previously undergone HSE inspection in 2021, resulting in enforcement action over similar concerns.
Puratos Limited admitted to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Alongside the fine, the firm was ordered to cover £6,270 in court costs on 17th July 2026.
Emma Page, an HSE inspector, addressed the risks, stating: “Too many workers in bakeries are suffering from unnecessary exposure to dusty ingredients, including flour. When employers prevent exposure, the risk of occupational asthma is removed."
She emphasised the significance of averting acute injuries from handling and lifting in food and drink sectors, urging employers to implement stronger protection measures for employees.
A spokesperson for Puratos said: "The health, safety and wellbeing of our employees remain our highest priority.
"Following the investigation from the Health and Safety Executive in 2024, we implemented immediate corrective actions and have invested significantly in enhanced dust-control measures, training, monitoring, manual handling improvements and health and safety governance at our Buckingham site.
"We continue to review and enhance our processes and remain committed to providing a safe working environment for all colleagues."