Understanding and controlling hazardous substances at work

Working with hazardous substances is common across UK industries — from construction and engineering to cleaning, manufacturing, maintenance, and even office environments. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) require employers to protect workers from exposure and manage substances safely.

What counts as a hazardous substance?

Under COSHH, this includes:

• Chemicals, adhesives, paints and solvents
• Cleaning products and disinfectants
• Dusts, fumes, mists and vapours
• Biological agents (e.g., bacteria, moulds)
• Fluids like oils, fuels and lubricants

If a substance has a hazard symbol on the label, COSHH applies.

What employers must do

To comply with COSHH, you must:

1. Assess the risk

Identify what substances are used, how workers might be exposed, and the possible health effects.

2. Put controls in place

Examples include:

• Using a safer alternative
• Improving ventilation
• Wearing gloves, masks or eye protection
• Safe storage, mixing, and disposal procedures

3. Provide information and training

Workers must understand:

• The risks
• How to use the substance safely
• What to do in an emergency

4. Review and update regularly

COSHH assessments should be reviewed whenever substances change, processes change, or an incident occurs.

Why COSHH matters

Good COSHH management reduces:

• Skin irritation
• Breathing issues and asthma
• Burns and chemical injuries
• Long-term health conditions
• Fire and environmental risks

It also strengthens legal compliance and demonstrates strong safety management.

COSHH Assessment Template (Docuqo 0104)

If you need a clear, compliant COSHH Assessment template for your workplace, you can download our professionally designed version here:

👉 COSHH Assessment Template – Docuqo 0104

This template helps you record hazardous substances, assess exposure risks, identify required controls, and stay aligned with UK COSHH regulations.