A COSHH assessment identifies the hazardous substances used or generated on site, evaluates the risks to health, and sets out the control measures needed to protect workers. Every substance that could harm health must be assessed before it is used on a construction site. This talk explains the assessment process, what a COSHH assessment must contain, and how the findings apply to your daily work.
Key Hazards
Lung disease or cancer from uncontrolled exposure to hazardous substances
Skin conditions from repeated contact with chemicals without adequate controls
Workers using substances without knowing the health risks or required precautions
Inadequate assessments failing to identify all exposure routes and affected workers
Control Measures
Complete a COSHH assessment for every hazardous substance before it is brought onto or used on site.
Obtain the safety data sheet from the manufacturer for each substance and keep it accessible on site.
Identify all routes of exposure including inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, and eye contact.
Apply the hierarchy of control: eliminate, substitute, enclose, ventilate, then use PPE as a last resort.
Record the assessment in writing and ensure it is signed off by a competent person.
Brief all operatives who will use or be exposed to the substance on the assessment findings.
Review the assessment whenever a new substance is introduced or the work process changes.
Ensure health surveillance is arranged where the assessment identifies it as necessary.
Store all COSHH assessments in the site safety file and make them available on request.
Remember
Every hazardous substance on site must have a written COSHH assessment before it is used
Safety data sheets must be obtained from the manufacturer and kept accessible on site
The hierarchy of control must be applied starting with elimination not jumping straight to PPE
All workers exposed to the substance must be briefed on the assessment findings and controls
COSHH assessments must be reviewed whenever a new product or process is introduced on site
Health surveillance must be arranged where the COSHH assessment identifies it as necessary
Applicable Legislation: COSHH Regulations 2002 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · EH40 Workplace Exposure Limits · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999