What is COSHH?
- COSHH: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations.
- Protects employees from exposure to harmful substances in the workplace.
1. What are Hazardous Substances?
- Forms: Solids, liquids, gases, mists, vapors, fumes, dust, and biological agents (e.g., bacteria, viruses).
- Examples:
- Chemicals (e.g., adhesives, cleaning agents).
- Naturally occurring substances (e.g., grain dust).
- Substances generated during work (e.g., fumes).
- Excluded Substances: Lead, asbestos, and radioactive materials (covered by separate regulations).
2. Effects of Hazardous Substances
- Health Impacts:
- Short-term (acute): Skin burns, eye irritation.
- Long-term (chronic): Respiratory issues, vision loss.
- Entry Routes:
- Inhalation (breathing in).
- Absorption (through skin).
- Ingestion (swallowing).
- Injection (via sharp objects).
- Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs):
- British limits set for hazardous substances in the air, averaged over long-term and short-term periods.
3. COSHH Principles
Employers must follow these 8 steps to comply with COSHH:
1. Assess Risks: Identify hazards and evaluate risks.
2. Decide Precautions: Implement safeguards.
3. Prevent or Control Exposure: Use proper control measures (e.g., ventilation).
4. Ensure Control Measures are Used and Maintained: Regular checks.
5. Monitor Exposure: Measure and track hazardous substance levels.
6. Health Surveillance: Conduct regular health checks for employees.
7. Plan for Emergencies: Prepare procedures for accidents or spills.
8. Inform and Train Employees: Provide proper training and supervision.
4. Legal Protections
- Covered under:
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (Amended 2004).
5. Key Takeaways
- Thousands of workers fall ill annually due to hazardous substances—don’t be one of them!
- Proper risk assessment, control measures, and training can prevent exposure and harm.
- Speak to a manager or safety representative for more guidance.
? Final Thought:
"Your safety matters—nothing you do is worth getting hurt for."?