- Read the COSHH assessment and safety data sheet before using any substance.
- Wear the PPE specified in the COSHH assessment — gloves, goggles, RPE as required.
- Use less hazardous alternatives wherever a substitution is reasonably practicable.
- Ensure adequate ventilation when using solvents, adhesives, or other volatile substances.
- Wash hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, or smoking after handling chemicals.
- Store all substances in their original labelled containers in a secure, ventilated area.
- Report any skin irritation, breathing difficulty, or allergic reaction to your supervisor.
- Attend health surveillance appointments when required for your role or exposure type.
- Use barrier cream before work and moisturiser after washing to protect your skin.
- Know the location of emergency eyewash stations and spill kits in your work area.
|
- DON'T use any substance without first checking the COSHH assessment and data sheet.
- DON'T remove or refuse to wear PPE required by the COSHH assessment.
- DON'T use hazardous substances when a safer alternative is available on site.
- DON'T work with chemicals in poorly ventilated or enclosed areas without extraction.
- DON'T eat, drink, or smoke while handling chemicals or before washing your hands.
- DON'T decant substances into unlabelled containers or mix incompatible chemicals.
- DON'T ignore early signs of irritation — report symptoms before they become serious.
- DON'T skip health surveillance appointments — early detection prevents permanent damage.
- DON'T allow wet cement or chemicals to remain in prolonged contact with your skin.
- DON'T assume a product is safe because it has no strong smell or visible hazard.
See also: Reading Safety Data Sheets | RPE Selection & Face Fit Testing
|