COSHH and hazardous substances Toolbox Talk
A label or SDS describes a product; the COSHH assessment must describe how this site will use it. Dust, fume and mist generated by work also count even when no product SDS exists.
Key points
- Read the current SDS and the site COSHH assessment before use.
- Confirm the product, H-codes, quantity, method and exposure routes match the assessment.
- Eliminate or substitute before relying on PPE.
- Use enclosure, extraction or wet methods to control exposure at source.
- Follow dilution, storage, spill and disposal instructions.
- Wash hands and keep substances out of welfare areas.
- Report symptoms, exposure and control failures promptly.
Do
- Keep products labelled.
- Use specified controls and PPE.
- Check extraction before work.
Don't
- Do not mix chemicals unless the method explicitly requires it.
- Do not decant into food containers.
- Do not rely on smell to judge exposure.
Questions to ask the group
- What are the exposure routes?
- What does the assessment require?
- Where is the SDS and spill kit?
References: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002; HSE EH40 Workplace exposure limits