Glossary

What is COSHH?

COSHH stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, requires employers to assess and control the risks from hazardous substances.

COSHH requires employers to assess the risks to health from hazardous substances before work begins, and then to prevent or adequately control exposure. Control measures such as local exhaust ventilation must be maintained, examined and tested, and exposure monitored where there is a risk to health.

Employees must be given information, instruction and training, and health surveillance provided where exposure could lead to a foreseeable disease or adverse health effect.

Questions

COSHH, answered.

What does COSHH stand for?

COSHH stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.

What is a COSHH assessment?

A documented assessment of the hazardous substances used, the routes of exposure, who is at risk and the control measures in place, supported by the relevant safety data sheets.

How often must local exhaust ventilation be tested under COSHH?

Local exhaust ventilation must be thoroughly examined and tested at least every 14 months, and more often for certain higher-risk processes.

References

COSHH: official sources

Links to primary UK legislation and official regulator guidance. CertFlow is independent and not affiliated with these bodies.

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