• 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