Control of Substances Hazardous To Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)
Every employer must have made a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks involved in the use of hazardous substances and harmful processes within the company.
The majority of hazardous substances carry a warning label. If in doubt, the supplier will be able to give more information, usually in the form of a maker’s product data sheet.
Subs
tances that are hazardous to health include substances labelled as being dangerous (i.e. very toxic, toxic, harmful, irritant or corrosive). They also include micro-organisms, substantial quantities of dust or any material, mixture or compound used at work, or arising from work activities, which can be harmful to health.
Many of these substances are used directly in industrial processes. Some are used in service functions such as cleaning or decorating and some are given off as by-products of processes. In all businesses, i.e. factories, warehouses, offices and shops, health can be at risk if the right precautions are not taken.
If hazardous substances or processes are used in the business, an assessment must be made. Assessment means evaluating the risks to health and then deciding on the action needed to remove or reduce those risks.
For further information why not try:
Booklet IND(G) 136L – COSHH – The New Brief Guide for Employers (HSE)