Understanding COSHH: A Simple Guide for Businesses

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 applies to substances that could potentially affect health if they're used incorrectly.

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.

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

Some cleaning tasks require personal protective equipment.

Depending on the product and the task, this may include:

  • Disposable gloves
  • Protective eyewear
  • Face masks
  • Protective clothing

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 POA (Price on Application) quotations 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.