Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH).
While LOLER and PUWER deal with machinery and hardware, COSHH is all about protecting people from the "hidden" dangers from chemicals, fumes, dusts, and vapors that can cause illness or injury.
What is a "Hazardous Substance"?
Under COSHH, a substance is hazardous if it can cause harm when inhaled, swallowed, or when it comes into contact with the skin. This includes:
- Chemicals: Cleaning products, paints, acids, and glues.
- Fumes: Gas from welding or exhaust.
- Dusts: Wood dust, flour, or silica dust from stone cutting.
- Vapors: Solvent vapors from thinners or adhesives.
- Biological Agents: Bacteria, viruses, or fungi (like Legionella).
The COSHH Hierarchy of Control
Employers are required to prevent or reduce workers' exposure to hazardous substances. They usually follow this order of priority:
- Elimination: Can you get rid of the substance entirely?
- Substitution: Can you use a safer alternative (e.g., water-based paint instead of solvent-based)?
- Engineering Controls: Can you use local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or enclosures?
- Administrative Controls: Can you change work patterns to limit exposure time?
- PPE: As a last resort, provide masks, gloves, or goggles.