The COSHH Regulations [Note - The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002] provide a legal framework to protect people against health risks from hazardous substances used at work.
Complying fully with COSHH involves:
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assessing the risks to health arising from work with chemicals
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deciding what precautions are needed
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preventing or controlling exposure
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ensuring that control measures are used and maintained
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monitoring exposure of workers to hazardous substances
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ensuring that employees are properly informed, trained and supervised
The Regulations indicate that assessment will be done by a 'competent person' ie someone trained locally in what to look for and what to do. You can download further guidance here on how to undertake this type of assessment, information about hazard data, and simple precautions to take when working with potentially hazardous substances. Appropriate training can be arranged through the Safety Office or Staff Development.
The majority of materials encountered in office, teaching and similar areas will present a comparatively low risk when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s/ supplier’s instructions. There should be no need for sophisticated control measures, environmental monitoring or medical surveillance.
If a written assessment is required, a COSHH Risk Assessment Form can be downloaded here:-
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