COS/Specific Substances/TBT-COS-008

Solvents and Degreasers

COSHH & Hazardous Substances › Specific Substances › Solvents and Degreasers

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Solvents and degreasers are widely used on construction sites for cleaning and preparation.
Common types include white spirit, acetone, thinners, trichloroethylene, and citrus degreasers.
Solvents enter the body through inhalation of vapours, skin absorption, and accidental ingestion.
Short-term exposure causes dizziness, headaches, nausea, and loss of coordination.
Long-term exposure can cause permanent liver, kidney, and nervous system damage.
Most solvents are highly flammable — vapours are heavier than air and collect in low areas.
COSHH 2002 requires a specific assessment for every solvent used on the construction site.
Safety data sheets must be available on site for every solvent product in use.
Skin contact must be minimised — many solvents cause occupational dermatitis.
Solvent-soaked rags are a serious fire hazard and must be stored in closed metal containers.

Health protection	Solvent vapours damage the brain, liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
Fire risk	Flammable vapours in confined areas create explosive atmospheres.
Skin disease	Repeated skin contact causes dermatitis — the most common occupational skin disease.
Legal compliance	COSHH requires assessment, controls, and health surveillance for solvent exposure.

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See also: COSHH Awareness | Reading Safety Data Sheets

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