Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
The law requires you to control exposure to materials that may be in your property that can cause ill health. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (as amended) provide a framework for this. In brief, the COSHH regulations require you to
- assess the risk of exposure
- eliminate, prevent and, where unavoidable, control exposure
- provide information and appropriate training and protective equipment for anyone that may be affected
The best way to get a full understanding of COSHH Regulations is to get appropriate training and seek independent advice. You can find more detailed guidance on the Health and Safety Executive website.
Examples of hazardous substances covered by COSHH Regulations include
- chemicals
- fumes
- dusts
- vapours
- gases
- biological agents
COSHH regulations do not cover lead, asbestos, or radioactive substances as they have their own specific regulations.