COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)

Using chemicals or other hazardous substances at work can put people’s health at risk, so the law requires employers to control exposure to hazardous substances to prevent ill health. They have to protect both employees and others who may be exposed by complying with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) (as amended)

As a part of that control all significant chemical products will be assessed by examination of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available for each product.  Where required a Safe System of Work will be produced and made available to employees.  These documents cover the hazards of the product, what safety measures should be taken, and what to do in emergencies.

It is the duty of the employer to make these available to all employees and the duty of employees to follow the control measures, particularly by using appropriate PPE

Some symbols and their meaning:

General - Harmful		Contains an irritant
Corrosive		Flammable (May add "Highly Flammable" or "Extremely Flammable")
Toxic May add "Very Toxic"		Harmful to the Environment
Some Control Measures
Dust Mask or Respirator (see Assessment for details)	Glasses or goggles see Assessment for type)	Gloves (see Assessment for type)	Overalls or Chemical Suit (see Assessment for type)