Definition
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. COSHH requires employers to assess and control the risks from hazardous substances in the workplace, including chemicals, fumes, dusts, and biological agents.
UK Context
COSHH 2002 is enforced by the HSE in Great Britain. Workplace exposure limits (WELs) are published in the HSE's EH40 document. Employers must keep COSHH assessment records and health surveillance records for at least 40 years. The regulations apply to all employers, regardless of size, where hazardous substances are present.
Best Practices
- Carry out COSHH assessments for all hazardous substances before they are introduced into the workplace
- Follow the hierarchy of control: eliminate, substitute, enclose, engineer, administer, PPE (in that order)
- Provide health surveillance where the assessment identifies a risk of occupational disease
- Review COSHH assessments regularly and whenever processes, substances, or working conditions change
Frequently Asked Questions
What substances are covered by COSHH?
COSHH covers chemicals, fumes, dusts, vapours, mists, gases, biological agents, and any other substance that can cause harm to health. It does not cover lead, asbestos, or radioactive substances, which have their own specific regulations.
Do all employers need COSHH assessments?
Any employer whose employees may be exposed to hazardous substances must carry out COSHH assessments. This includes offices (cleaning products), retail (pest control chemicals), and hospitality (commercial cleaning agents), not just industrial settings.
How often should COSHH assessments be reviewed?
COSHH assessments should be reviewed regularly — at least annually as good practice — and whenever there is a significant change in processes, substances, or working conditions, or following an incident involving a hazardous substance.