COSHH Assessment Explained: A Guide for Employers

Understand how COSHH assessments help control exposure to hazardous substances.

COSHH Assessment Explained: A Guide for Employers

Guide Summary

A COSHH assessment should explain what a substance is, how exposure could happen, what harm could occur and which controls are needed to prevent or reduce exposure.

Workplace Guidance

  • Use the label and safety data sheet to understand hazards, exposure routes, first aid measures, storage needs and emergency arrangements.
  • Consider inhalation, skin contact, ingestion and accidental injection rather than focusing only on the container label.
  • Prioritise elimination, substitution, enclosure, ventilation, safe systems and good storage before relying on PPE as the main control.

How to Use This Guide

Use the guide as a simple reference for toolbox talks, internal communication and improving day-to-day workplace standards.