What Substances Are Covered By Coshh

What Substances are Covered by COSHH? A Comprehensive Guide

COSHH, or the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health regulations, is a UK legal framework designed to protect employees from risks caused by hazardous substances. Understanding which substances fall under COSHH's purview is crucial for employers to ensure workplace safety and comply with the law. This comprehensive guide will delve into the broad range of substances covered, offering clarity and practical guidance. It's essential to remember that this information is for guidance only, and specific legal interpretation should always be sought from qualified health and safety professionals.

Introduction to COSHH and Hazardous Substances

COSHH isn't a simple list of banned substances; instead, it's a set of regulations that requires employers to assess and control the risks from hazardous substances in their workplaces. A hazardous substance is broadly defined as any substance that has the potential to harm health. This encompasses a vast array of materials, and the level of risk depends on various factors, including the substance's properties, the amount present, and the method of exposure.

Categories of Substances Covered by COSHH

COSHH covers a broad spectrum of substances, categorized for easier understanding:

1. Chemical Substances:

This is arguably the largest category, encompassing a vast range of chemicals used in various industries. Examples include:

• Acids: Sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, etc., used in various manufacturing processes and cleaning.
• Alkalis: Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), potassium hydroxide, used in cleaning, manufacturing, and other industries.
• Solvents: Acetone, ethanol, toluene, used in cleaning, degreasing, and paint thinners. Many solvents are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause respiratory problems.
• Metals and Metal Compounds: Lead, mercury, chromium, cadmium, and their compounds, often used in manufacturing, plating, and other industrial processes. These can pose significant health risks through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion.
• Pesticides: Herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, used in agriculture and pest control. Many are acutely toxic and can have long-term health effects.
• Reactive Chemicals: Substances that react violently with water, air, or other substances, posing explosion or fire risks.
• Carcinogens: Substances known or suspected to cause cancer, such as asbestos, benzene, and certain types of silica.
• Mutagen: Substances known or suspected to cause genetic mutations, potentially leading to birth defects or cancer.
• Reproductive Toxins: Substances that can harm reproductive health, affecting fertility or causing birth defects.

2. Biological Agents:

These are living organisms that can pose health risks, including:

• Bacteria: E. coli, Salmonella, Legionella, which can cause various infections.
• Viruses: Influenza virus, HIV, Hepatitis B and C viruses, which can cause a wide range of diseases.
• Fungi: Aspergillus, Candida, which can cause respiratory infections or other illnesses.
• Parasites: Toxoplasma gondii, Giardia lamblia, which can cause various parasitic infections. These are often encountered in healthcare, research, and waste management settings.

3. Dusts:

Exposure to dusts can cause various respiratory problems, including:

• Wood dust: Can cause respiratory irritation and, in long-term exposure, wood dust asthma or nasal cancer.
• Mineral dusts: Silica dust (crystalline silica), asbestos, coal dust, can cause silicosis, asbestosis, or coal worker's pneumoconiosis (black lung disease).
• Metal dusts: Iron dust, aluminum dust, can cause metal fume fever or other respiratory problems.

4. Fumes:

These are airborne particles produced by the vaporization of solid or liquid materials. Examples include:

• Metal fumes: Welding fumes containing various metals and oxides can cause metal fume fever.
• Plastic fumes: Burning plastics release various toxic gases and fumes.

5. Gases:

Many gases pose serious health risks, such as:

• Carbon monoxide: A colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal.
• Nitrogen dioxide: A highly reactive gas that can cause respiratory problems.
• Hydrogen sulfide: A toxic and flammable gas with a characteristic rotten egg smell.
• Chlorine: A highly reactive and toxic gas.

6. Vapors:

These are gaseous forms of substances that are normally liquid at room temperature. Examples include:

• Solvent vapors: Many organic solvents produce vapors that can cause respiratory and other health problems.
• Petroleum vapors: Petroleum products release vapors that can be irritating and harmful.

7. Nanomaterials:

These are materials with extremely small particles, which can have unique properties and pose potentially new health risks. The effects of long-term exposure to many nanomaterials are still being researched.

Factors Affecting Risk Assessment

The risk assessment for each substance must consider various factors, including:

• Toxicity: The inherent harmfulness of the substance.
• Exposure Route: How the substance enters the body (inhalation, skin contact, ingestion).
• Exposure Level: The concentration and duration of exposure.
• Susceptibility of Workers: Pre-existing health conditions can increase vulnerability.
• Workplace Conditions: Poor ventilation, inadequate PPE, etc., can heighten risk.

Controlling Risks Under COSHH

Once the risk assessment is complete, employers must implement control measures to minimize exposure to hazardous substances. These measures typically follow a hierarchy:

1. Elimination: Removing the hazardous substance entirely from the workplace.
2. Substitution: Replacing the hazardous substance with a less hazardous alternative.
3. Engineering Controls: Implementing engineering solutions such as ventilation systems, enclosed processes, and local exhaust ventilation (LEV).
4. Administrative Controls: Implementing procedures, such as work schedules, training, and supervision, to limit exposure.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing workers with appropriate PPE such as respirators, gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing. PPE is the last line of defense and should only be used when other control measures are insufficient.

Documentation and Training

COSHH compliance requires meticulous record-keeping. Employers must maintain records of:

• Risk assessments: Detailed assessments of the risks associated with each hazardous substance.
• Control measures: Documentation of the steps taken to control the risks.
• Employee training: Records of training provided to employees on the hazards and control measures.
• Health surveillance: Records of any health monitoring conducted on employees exposed to hazardous substances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What happens if I don't comply with COSHH?

A: Non-compliance can lead to prosecution, significant fines, and potential imprisonment. More importantly, it can result in serious injury or illness to employees.

Q: Does COSHH apply to all workplaces?

A: Yes, COSHH applies to virtually all workplaces where hazardous substances are present, regardless of size or industry.

Q: Who is responsible for COSHH compliance?

A: The employer is ultimately responsible for ensuring COSHH compliance. This often involves designating a competent person to oversee health and safety matters.

Q: How often should risk assessments be reviewed?

A: Risk assessments should be reviewed regularly and updated whenever there is a significant change in the workplace or the substances used.

Q: What if I'm unsure if a substance is covered by COSHH?

A: It's always better to err on the side of caution. Seek advice from a health and safety professional if you are uncertain about the hazards associated with a substance.

Conclusion: Proactive Safety is Paramount

COSHH regulations are not merely a legal requirement; they are a vital part of creating a safe and healthy workplace. By understanding the breadth of substances covered, conducting thorough risk assessments, and implementing appropriate control measures, employers can significantly reduce the risks associated with hazardous substances and protect the well-being of their employees. Remember, proactive safety is not just about complying with the law; it's about investing in the health and future of your workforce. Always consult with health and safety professionals for specific guidance relevant to your workplace.