The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations impose duties on businesses to protect employees against health risks that may arise from activities exposing them to hazardous substances at work.
One such duty is the requirement to carry out COSHH risk assessments before using any substance.
What is a hazardous substance?
They can take many forms but include gases, vapours, chemicals or products containing chemicals, fumes and mists.
What is a COSHH risk assessment?
A COSHH Risk Assessment will:
- Identify the hazards and assess the risks to health arising from the use of hazardous substances during a work activity
- Decide what control measures are required to prevent or control exposure
Who can carry out a COSHH assessment?
While there are no specific qualifications required, it’s crucial the person carrying out the COSHH assessment has the experience, knowledge and skills necessary to fully understand the hazardous substances, subsequent risks and the relevant steps needed to manage and control exposure.
Aegis has staff qualified to undertake COSHH Assessments on behalf of clients and can advise you and your team on protecting colleagues from hazardous substances.
Additionally, our work can help you put the right systems and procedures in place to ensure people are protected in the long term.
Contact our team to find out more about the ways we can support you in becoming a safer business.