A COSHH assessment involves the following steps:
- Identify hazardous substances: This includes chemicals, fumes, dusts, vapours, gases, and biological agents that are used, handled, or generated in the workplace.
- Determine who might be harmed: This includes employees, contractors, visitors, or members of the public who may be exposed to the hazardous substances.
- Evaluate the risks: This involves assessing the likelihood and severity of harm that may result from exposure to the hazardous substances.
- Implement control measures: This involves putting in place measures to control the risks identified, such as substituting the hazardous substance with a less harmful one, using protective equipment, or implementing engineering controls like ventilation systems.
- Monitor and review: The employer must monitor the effectiveness of the control measures and review the COSHH assessment regularly to ensure that it remains up to date and relevant.