CoSHH – the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health.
CoSHH is the law that requires employers to ensure their employees are not exposed to hazardous substances which could cause ill health.
Does it apply to me?
CoSHH is relevant for a number of industries some of which are very obvious, such as engineering, manufacturing and agriculture. However, the law also applies to other types of work such as catering and food preparation, cleaning, and hairdressing and beauty. It is important to realise that even if you are self-employed CoSHH still is applicable and the regulations should be adhered to.
Of course, people in certain lines of work will be exposed to hazardous substances more than others. And they may have to work with substances that are regarded as more harmful and dangerous than others. In which case, all control measures should be proportionate to the risk, and work within the guidelines of reasonable practicality.
For many, complying with the CoSHH regulations and ensuring that employees are not put at risk can be confusing and stressful.
In December 2013 HSE released updated guidance on controlling hazardous substances in the workplace. HSE have revised their Approved Code of Practice (ACOPs) to clarify and simplify the practical advice which is available to help employers comply to the CoSHH regulations. It is now the sixth edition that you should consult and use to follow procedures.
ACOPs are not the law. However, they are there for employers to consult. Therefore, by reading the ACOP guidance and implementing it’s suggestions you can be confident that you are complying with the law.
What are hazardous substances?
We often use hazardous substances every day without even realising what they are and their potential dangers. Hazardous substances can include:
- Chemicals
- vapours and mists
- gases and fumes
- pesticides
- germs
- and even items such as bleach and paint
What should I do?
Complete a risk assessment to outline what, if any, hazardous substances you use in your line of work. This will help you implement any preventative measures such as:
- reducing exposure by using local exhaust ventilation or providing personal protective equipment
- providing correct and sufficient CoSHH storage for substances
- ensuring employees have the correct training
- ensuring that information on the substances you use is provided and readily available
- and regularly checking that all preventative measures work and are maintained
Our hazardous storage cabinets are all compatible with the latest CoSHH regulations.
Where can I store hazardous substances?
If you need to keep hazardous substances on your premises, an easy way to store them correctly is to invest in good quality hazardous storage cabinets. Our range is specifically designed and manufactured to meet CoSHH regulations. They provide secure storage for a variety of hazardous substances (mentioned above). Furthermore, the cabinets are now Fire Guard Tested & Certified to EN 13501-1 reaction to Fire Classification A2-s2, d0 EN 13501-1:2007+A1:2009. This classification ensures the cabinets will not add to a fire or encourage the spread of a fire.
KEY FEATURES FOR HAZARDOUS STORAGE CABINETS
- adjustable spill retaining galvanised shelves
- integral sump for handling spills through use of absorbents
- secure 2-point locking system which secures locking bolts through the frame
- hard wearing powder coated finish in bright yellow
- supplied with the current hazardous substance graphics
- Manufactured in the UK
What’s more, our range our hazardous storage cabinets are available with free 5 Day Delivery (UK mainland). However, if this speed service is not quick enough for you needs, not to worry! We also have a Next Day Delivery option for just an extra £25. But remember if you need your hazardous storage cabinets next working day, please place your order before 12pm (noon).
Finally, for more information on CoSHH storage and CoSHH cabinets please see our post ‘The Correct Way to Store Hazardous Substances’.
Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published January 2014 and was updated in November 2016 for accuracy.