For the uninitiated, COSHH stands for the control of substances hazardous to health. It is legislation that was put in place in 2002 and built upon previous health and safety laws. Put simply, it ensures that organizations that handle, store, or use substances that present a risk to human health do so safely.
For example, in many factories, manufacturing plants, and even office buildings there may be substances or materials that have the potential to impact on the health of the workforce. Substances and materials may be corrosive (presenting a severe health risk if they come into contact with the skin or are inhaled as gasses), highly flammable, or may have other health risks.
Every company needs to ensure that they stay COSHH compliant when using or storing such substances. It is a legal requirement, and companies may face severe financial and legal penalties if they are found to be negligent in this respect. In this article, some key information on how to stay COSHH compliant will be described.
The Importance of Risk Assessments
Firstly, it is of paramount importance that suitable risk assessments are undertaken concerning COSHH materials and substances. There is a broad spectrum of substances that can pose a risk to human health, and they can be found in millions of workplaces around the world.
For example, even a hairdressing firm will need to undertake a risk assessment of some of the chemicals that they use in hair dying and how they treat their clients. If a customer had headlice, this would also fall under the banner of COSHH, as the organisms have the potential to spread from client to client, negatively impacting their overall health and well-being.
All potential COSHH risks should be identified during the risk assessment. After it has been concluded, there should be consideration given to how any risks can be minimized, managed, or eradicated.
For example, a firm may decide to invest in secure storage options for any hazardous materials or substances, such as those produced by firms like seton.co.uk. Secure storage of these items will ensure that unauthorized access can be limited, especially if the storage area is locked or needs a swipe card to access.
Incorporate Emergency Procedures
It is also vital to incorporate emergency procedures into your COSHH framework. These may include raising the alarm in the first instance that exposure to potentially harmful substances has been identified.
The next step is typically to evacuate the building and move staff to a safe area that is outside the reach of the substances. All staff should be aware of what to do in the event of a COSHH-related emergency so that the risks to human health can be minimized.
The Need for Staff Training
The final point relates to the need for staff training concerning COSHH. As previously mentioned, staff must have a clear understanding of what to do in the event of an emergency or exposure to a toxic substance. In addition, all relevant staff who handle or use COSHH substances should receive comprehensive training in their use.
This may also include the need to wear suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a respirator or specific types of gloves and safety clothing. In short, effective training helps to minimize any adverse effects from handling potentially dangerous substances.