COSHH Assessments

COSHH regulations require employers to manage substances which can be harmful to human health. An assessment is carried out for the purpose of identifying hazardous substances present, whether the precautions you have taken are acceptable, and what control measures are in place. The assessment will contain relevant information on the process, substances, risks and control measures.

At RPS, this is carried out by a 3-step process:

• Gathering information about the substances, associated work and practices
• Evaluating the risks to health
• Deciding on the necessary measures (controls) to comply with regulations 7-13 of the COSHH regulations

A completed assessment may conclude that the current controls are adequate, or that further controls are necessary to protect workers. 

A completed assessment will help to reduce operator exposure to low level risks.

The regulations stipulate that assessments should be reviewed every 2 years from completion. If any of the following are applicable, then they must be reviewed sooner:

• Modification of existing, or installation of new, process plant or equipment
• A change of process
• Change in volume of production
• New substances or new evidence on hazards of existing substances
• Alteration of control techniques/equipment
• Ill health related to work is reported
• Monitoring or health surveillance indicates loss of control
• New or improved techniques become reasonably practicable

Are you concerned about risks and hazards in your workplace? Please get in touch - our team of Hygienists are qualified to assess the risks associated with substances in the workplace and can help you make your site as safe as possible.