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The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2003 (COSHH) requires employers to plan, manage and monitor the use of chemicals, micro-organisms and other substances hazardous to health within the workplace.
We can provide assistance in the following areas to aid compliance with the COSHH regulations:-
Recognising the hazards, Evaluating the risks and Controlling exposure.
We have been involved in carrying out COSHH assessments since the original regulations came into force, and have the necessary experience in sampling and analysing atmospheric contaminants in many industries. We employ methods approved by the Health & Safety Executive from the MDHS series of documents and have samples analysed by a UKAS accredited laboratory.
The approach we would advise to assist a company in complying with the regulations is as follows:
This involves a 'Walk-through' survey to assess the use of potentially hazardous substances. Every location within the workplace and all process should be included. Historical information on past surveys or monitoring exercises and the full co-operation of the workforce is essential at this stage, to ensure all relevant information is obtained.
Preliminary Monitoring Survey
This involves monitoring the exposure of groups of staff identified in the initial assessment as being most likely to be affected by hazardous substances. Personal and background air sampling is normally carried out at this stage. Results are compared to the Occupational Exposure Limits given in HSE Guidance Note EH40, and a decision taken on whether a more extensive survey is required.
Full Monitoring Survey
This is normally carried out if the results of the preliminary survey show that levels of personal exposure to chemicals is close to or in excess of exposure limits. It usually involves a larger scale and more detailed monitoring exercise, checking working practices and control measures. Local exhaust ventilation equipment (LEV) should be tested at the same time. Advice is given on methods of reducing exposure, improving control techniques and if possible, suggesting alternative chemicals or processes that would eliminate the use of the hazardous substances.
Routine Monitoring
To ensure that the remedial actions recommended in the survey have been effective, routine monitoring should be undertaken. Modifications to processes or working practices that have occurred since the original survey are also assessed at this stage. The monitoring frequency depends on the level of risk identified during the survey, but as a minimum, it would normally be carried out once a year.
