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COSHH – Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Risk Assessments

COSHH Management

Hazardous Substances are used in many workplaces and take many different forms. Solids, liquids, gases, mists and fumes can be present in the workplace.

Exposure to hazardous substances can affect the body in many different ways. Skin contact, inhalation and ingestion can cause damage.

In legislation, Hazardous Substances are defined in a number of ways. In The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), for example, they are those substances classified as toxic, very toxic, corrosive, harmful or irritant. Biological agents and dusts in substantial concentrations are also classified as hazardous substances.

Exposure to hazardous substances can affect the body in many different ways. Skin contact, inhalation and ingestion can cause damage.

Why Premier?

COSHH Regulations and Your Business

What risks do Hazardous Substances present?

Hazardous Substances can cause short- and long-term health problems.

They can cause serious ill health including cancers, dermatitis and asthma.

A cleaner splashing bleach on their skin could cause a burn or inflammation, which will have little long-term effect in most cases. However, a splash in the eye could cause permanent damage to their sight.

A joiner suffering years of exposure to wood dust could have long-term health problems – the dust could affect his lungs and cause health problems for the rest of his life.

There are legal obligations on employers to control exposure to Hazardous Substances to preserve the health of their employees.

Who is at risk from Hazardous Substances?

Anyone who works with or is exposed to hazardous substances is at risk. Those exposed to more hazardous substances for long periods of time are more at risk than those exposed for short periods or to less hazardous substances.

The aim should be to prevent exposure to hazardous substances. Where exposure cannot be avoided, then adequate controls should be put in place.

Premier Risk Services provide competent advice and will produce full COSHH risk assessments for your employees to remain safe and for your company to remain compliant with the law.

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