Guide to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)

The COSHH Regulations provide crucial guidelines for managing substances hazardous to health in the workplace, ensuring employee safety and legal compliance.

Overview of COSHH Regulations

COSHH is a regulatory framework for controlling hazardous substances in the workplace. It was amended in 2004, with the changes taking effect in 2005.

Key Measures Under COSHH

Employers must:

• Identify health hazards associated with substances
• Carry out risk assessments to prevent or reduce harm
• Implement and maintain control measures
• Provide information, instruction, and training to employees
• Conduct monitoring and health surveillance as needed
• Prepare for emergency situations

Recognising and Handling Hazardous Substances

Businesses must be aware of the potential risks associated with:

• Substances or products containing mixtures of substances
• Processes that create harmful substances

Assessing New Technologies and Work Processes

With new technologies and work processes, it's crucial to:

• Thoroughly understand the risks of new materials or substances
• Implement additional precautions where necessary

Conclusion

The COSHH Regulations play a vital role in safeguarding workers from the risks posed by hazardous substances in the workplace. Employers are required to actively manage these risks through comprehensive assessment and control measures.