Understanding COSHH: A Simple Guide for Businesses
COSHH helps businesses use hazardous substances safely in the workplace.
If your business uses cleaning chemicals, disinfectants or other potentially hazardous substances, you've probably come across the term COSHH.
COSHH stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health. It's a set of regulations designed to help employers protect staff and others from substances that could cause harm if they're not used, stored or handled correctly.
Understanding the basics of COSHH can help create a safer working environment and encourage good cleaning practices.
What Does COSHH Cover?
COSHH covers health risks from exposure to hazardous substances at work, not only accidental misuse.
This can include:
- Cleaning chemicals
- Disinfectants
- Degreasers
- Bleach-based products
- Descalers
- Solvents
- Other professional cleaning products
Many everyday commercial cleaning products fall within COSHH requirements.
Assess the Work, Not Just the Product
A COSHH assessment considers how substances are actually used, who could be exposed, and what controls are needed. Include storage, handling, disposal and foreseeable spills or other incidents. Prevent exposure where reasonably practicable; otherwise control it, and train staff in the agreed precautions.
Read HSE's COSHH guidance for cleaning work. This introductory guide is not a substitute for your workplace assessment or competent health and safety advice.
Safety Data Sheets Are Not COSHH Assessments
Obtain the relevant current safety data sheet from the supplier and use it alongside the product label to inform your assessment. It describes chemical hazards and precautions; it does not assess your particular workplace or task. A safety data sheet on its own is not a COSHH assessment. See HSE's explanation of safety data sheets.
Why Is COSHH Important?
Following COSHH principles helps businesses:
- Protect employees.
- Reduce the risk of accidents.
- Promote safer working practices.
- Store chemicals correctly.
- Ensure products are used as intended.
- Create a healthier working environment.
Good housekeeping and staff awareness are important parts of workplace safety.
Read Product Labels
Cleaning products should always be used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Product labels provide important information, including:
- Safe use.
- Dilution instructions where applicable.
- Storage guidance.
- Hazard warnings.
- Personal protective equipment recommendations.
Reading labels before use helps ensure products are used safely and effectively.
Store Cleaning Chemicals Safely
Cleaning chemicals should be stored:
- In their original containers.
- With labels clearly visible.
- Away from food preparation areas.
- Securely and out of reach of unauthorised persons.
- In accordance with the manufacturer's guidance.
Never transfer chemicals into unlabelled containers.
Wear Appropriate PPE
Select protective equipment for the chemical, the task and the exposure identified in the COSHH assessment, using the safety data sheet and manufacturer's instructions. This may include suitable protective gloves, eye protection or protective clothing. Do not assume that any disposable glove or face covering provides the protection the task requires; seek competent advice when unsure.
PPE is part of the precautions described in HSE's cleaning guidance, not a replacement for preventing or controlling exposure.
Use the Right Cleaning Products
Using the correct cleaning product for the correct task helps improve results while reducing unnecessary chemical use.
Train Staff
Anyone responsible for cleaning should understand:
- Which products they're using.
- How to use them safely.
- Where products should be stored.
- Which PPE should be worn.
- What to do if a product is spilled.
Clear procedures and regular training help reduce mistakes and improve workplace safety.
Buying in Bulk?
If you're purchasing professional cleaning chemicals for your business, we offer bulk quotes across many product ranges.
Visit our Bulk Orders page to find out more.
Need Advice?
If you're unsure which cleaning products are suitable for your workplace or need guidance choosing professional cleaning supplies, our team is always happy to help.
Whether you're purchasing for an office, school, care home, hotel or industrial premises, we'll help you find practical solutions for your business.