Controlling exposure to hazardous substances through detailed assessment and implementing preventative measures is vital in preventing work related ill health and disease.
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (2002) – as amended have been in existence for many years now and it is likely that employers, employees and employees’ representatives are aware of their basic requirements under the Regulations. It is unlikely, however, that all are aware that the COSHH regulations have evolved several times since first being introduced in 1989.
In April 2005 the fifth revision of COSHH introduced new Workplace Exposure Limits (WEL’s) and the concept of ‘best practice’. The regulations evolved further in October 2007 and December 2011 when new WEL’s came into force. The most recent (sixth) revision of COSHH was published in 2013.
With each new revision, duties and requirements change, it is important that COSHH records and assessments are reviewed regularly so that they are kept up to date.
With this in mind, a number of questions should be asked by an employer to check if there is compliance, i.e.:
If you or your company is not confident with a positive answer to any of these questions, you may need some external assistance!
Newcastle Occupational Health & Hygiene Ltd can assist with all aspects of the COSHH regulations, including:
In all areas of COSHH we can guide you through your compliance requirements and give details of additional control strategies which might be appropriate. For further advice on all aspects COSHH, please do not hesitate to contact Newcastle Occupational Health and Hygiene Ltd.