Definition and Scope of COSHH:
COSHH, or Control of Substances Hazardous to Health, is a set of regulations mandated by law to manage exposure to hazardous materials within the workplace.
Identification of Harmful Substances:
Various materials encountered in the workplace pose risks to health, including dusts, gases, fumes, liquids, gels, powders, and harmful micro-organisms. These substances can lead to adverse health effects such as infection, allergic reactions, or toxicity.
Exclusions from COSHH Coverage:
Certain substances, such as lead, asbestos, and radioactive materials, have specific regulations separate from COSHH and are not covered
Hazards Associated with Harmful Substances:
Hazardous substances can cause a range of health issues, from asthma to cancer, and may result in skin damage or long-term lung conditions. Some effects manifest immediately, while others develop over time and may be irreversible.
Responsibilities under COSHH:
To mitigate exposure to hazardous substances, employers must:
- Identify health hazards associated with substances.
- Conduct risk assessments to determine preventive measures.
- Implement control measures to minimise health risks.
- Ensure the proper utilisation of control measures.
- Maintain all control measures in optimal working condition.
- Provide comprehensive information, instruction, and training to workers and relevant stakeholders.
- Conduct monitoring and health surveillance as necessary.
- Establish protocols for handling emergencies.
HSE has recently revised two publications on first aid at work:
1. First Aid at Work: Guidance on Regulations (L74)
This publication outlines the necessary steps to ensure adequate first aid provision in the workplace. The updates now highlight employers’ responsibilities to consider employees’ mental health in their first aid needs assessment.
2. Selecting a First Aid Training Provider: A Guide for Employers (GEIS3)
This guide assists employers in identifying and choosing a competent training provider for their first aid training requirements. It has been updated to streamline the process of selecting a training provider.
These updates maintain compliance with existing legal requirements and do not introduce any new obligations.
For additional advice, resources, and information, please visit the HSE website here
As an employer, you are responsible for managing health and safety in your company. This involves managing risks and taking practical steps to protect workers and others from harm.
Managing risk is just one part of health and safety management. You must also have arrangements in place to:
- Make the right plans
- Implement those plans
- Check they are working
- Act if they are not
The measures you put in place should be part of your everyday processes for managing your business.
For further information on the right guidance for your business and how to manage health and safety read HSE guidance here