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How should I carry out a COSHH risk assessment? To carry out a COSHH risk assessment, follow these steps:

• Gather information on the hazardous properties of the substances, the work involved, and existing work practices.
• Evaluate the health risks associated with these substances.
• Determine the necessary control measures to comply with COSHH regulations.
• Record the assessment (mandatory for businesses with five or more employees).
• Decide on a schedule for reviewing the assessment to ensure it remains relevant.
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How often should a COSHH assessment be reviewed? COSHH assessments should be regularly revisited to ensure they are up to date. The timing for reviews depends on the type of risk, the nature of the work, and the likelihood of changes in the workplace. Immediate reviews are required if there is evidence suggesting the original assessment is no longer valid or if significant changes occur in the work environment that could affect exposure to hazardous substances.

How do I conduct a COSHH assessment for a substance without a Safety Data Sheet, such as dust? Some substances, like dust, may be generated during work processes. If a substance is hazardous in its working form, you must evaluate the associated health risks and determine how workers might be exposed. For example, using a dry brush to sweep up dust could increase exposure. Consider using alternative methods, such as a vacuum cleaner, to minimise risks.

Safety Data Sheets

How can I obtain Safety Data Sheets and how should I use them? Suppliers must provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) when you first order a hazardous substance, if the formulation changes, or upon request. If the substance is not dangerous for supply, the supplier should include instructions for safe use. The SDS offers crucial information on the hazardous properties of the substance, associated health risks, and recommended control measures. However, an SDS is only the starting point for a COSHH risk assessment and does not replace the need for a thorough assessment tailored to your specific workplace conditions.

Is it necessary to carry out a COSHH risk assessment if I have Safety Data Sheets for all hazardous substances? Yes. While Safety Data Sheets provide essential information on the substances used, they do not account for specific conditions in your workplace. A COSHH risk assessment is necessary to evaluate how these substances interact with your particular work environment and to implement appropriate control measures.

Keeping Records

What should be included in a health surveillance record? Health surveillance records should include the following:

• The employee’s name and National Insurance number
• Details of the substance they are exposed to and the frequency of exposure
• The type of surveillance test conducted and the tester’s details
• The outcome of the test, such as passed, retest, or failed

It is important to note that health surveillance records differ from medical records, which are confidential and managed by health professionals.

What should be done with medical records if a company goes out of business? If your company ceases operations, medical records can be transferred to the HSE’s Employment Medical Advisory Service or given directly to the employee or their GP, with the employee’s consent.

Is there a specific form required for recording COSHH assessments? There is no mandatory form for recording COSHH assessments, as the complexity of the assessments can vary. However, it is important to ensure that your records cover key points such as the hazards, affected individuals, tasks involved, and the control measures in place.

Working with Hazardous Substances

What qualifies as a substance hazardous to health? A substance hazardous to health can include any material or mixture with the potential to cause harm when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. The COSHH regulations apply to substances that are toxic, harmful, corrosive, or irritant, as well as dusts, biological agents, and other chemicals that present a health risk due to their properties or usage.

Do cleaning chemicals need to be stored in a locked cupboard? Locking up cleaning chemicals is advisable, particularly if vulnerable individuals, such as children or those with learning disabilities, could potentially access them.

What should I do if my employer has no procedures in place to control exposure to hazardous substances? If your employer has not implemented adequate control measures for hazardous substances, you should report the situation to the HSE’s Concerns and Advice Team or your local authority’s Environmental Health Officer. Reports can be made anonymously.

What are the ventilation requirements for working with hazardous substances? General building ventilation should achieve five to ten air changes per hour. For specific processes, local exhaust ventilation (LEV) may be necessary to remove airborne contaminants at the source. The effectiveness of LEV systems depends on the design and setup, so consultation with a competent professional is recommended.

Training

What qualifications or training are required to conduct COSHH assessments? While no specific qualifications are required, the person conducting the assessment must be competent, which means they should have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience. This includes understanding the hazards and risks associated with hazardous substances, knowing how these substances can expose workers, and having the authority to gather and assess relevant information.

Understanding and following COSHH regulations is crucial for maintaining a safe workplace. For further guidance, always consult the relevant HSE publications and consider seeking advice from health and safety professionals.