Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations
Understanding the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations
- The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations is a UK statutory law aimed at controlling, managing and preventing harm to workers from hazardous substances.
- It is a regulatory framework that requires employers to control exposure to hazardous substances in order to prevent ill health.
- COSHH applies to all substances that are hazardous to health, including chemicals, dust, fumes, bacteria, viruses, and other biological agents.
COSHH Risk Assessment
- The regulations require employers to carry out a COSHH risk assessment with the aim of identifying health risks in the workplace and taking appropriate precautionary measures.
- Employers should assess the risks to health from hazardous substances and decide what precautionary measures to take.
- The risk assessment should also consider containment and control measures, safe handling, emergency planning, and training and information for employees.
Employer’s responsibilities under COSHH
- The employer is responsible to prevent or adequately control exposure to substances that can cause damage to health, in order of preference: (a) by changing the process to eliminate the substance, (b) by substituting with a less hazardous substance, (c) by using control equipment such as fume cupboards, and (d) by providing personal protective equipment.
- Employers are also required to ensure that control measures are used and maintained properly, and that safety procedures are followed.
- They must provide information, instruction and training for employees and others who may be exposed to hazardous substances at their workplace.
Health Surveillance
- Regular health surveillance might be legally required if there’s a risk of ill health from exposure, particularly when there is a risk of asthma, dermatitis, or lung diseases.
- If harm is identified, the employee must be rolled off and provided with information and advice.
The stringent application of COSHH regulations is beneficial in managing hazardous substances, reducing risks and ensuring a safe working environment. It’s important to keep key terms like COSHH risk assessment, adequately control exposure, and health surveillance in mind when studying this regulation.