What Does COSHH Stand For? A Simple UK Explanation for SMEs

COSHH stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health.
It’s the UK regulation that protects workers from harmful chemicals, fumes, dusts, vapours and biological agents.

What Employers Must Do Under COSHH

• Identify hazardous substances
• Complete a COSHH assessment
• Put controls in place (ventilation, PPE, handling procedures)
• Store chemicals safely
• Train staff
• Review assessments regularly

What Substances Are Covered?

• Cleaning chemicals
• Solvents
• Paints and adhesives
• Dusts (wood, flour, silica)
• Fumes and vapours
• Mists and gases
• Biological hazards

Any business using even basic cleaning products must follow COSHH guidelines.

For small and medium-sized businesses, COSHH assessments help ensure hazardous substances are identified early, risks are controlled proportionately, and staff are protected when working with everyday chemicals and materials.