COSHH Risk Assessment – Template in MS Word

A COSHH Risk Assessment (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) is essential for protecting workers’ health and guaranteeing compliance with safety rules in companies where hazardous chemicals are handled. Safety rules compliance covers everything from the assessment method to useful suggestions like the 8 steps of COSHH assessment and the 10 golden rules for COSHH. This guide will provide you with thorough knowledge of COSHH risk assessments. To further ease your safety planning, you may obtain a free COSHH risk assessment template in MS Word.

Why is a COSHH Risk Assessment necessary?

• Prevents occupational diseases brought on by toxic chemicals.
• Guarantees adherence to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.
• Guards workers from both long- and short-term health hazards.
• Lessens the possibility of legal fallout.

What are the 8 Steps to COSHH Assessment?

Making a COSHH Risk Assessment calls for both organization and clarity. These are the eight COSHH assessment steps you should apply:

1. List dangerous materials:
   • List every chemical, fume, dust, vapor, or biological agent either produced or used at work.
   • Review labels, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and supplier information for every chemical.
2. Determine who might suffer:
   • List those who might be exposed—employees, contractors, guests.
   • Consider sensitive populations, including people with health issues or pregnant employees.
3. Analyze the Risks:
   • Find out how the substances might be harmful, considering skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion paths.
   • Evaluate every substance’s risk using MSDS information.
4. Choose among Control Strategies:
   • Apply policies including safety gear, ventilation, or substitution of dangerous materials with safer substitutes.
   • Sort the control concepts according to hierarchy.
5. Note Your Results:
   • Record the assessment, including noted hazards, risks, and control strategies.
   • Add proof such as MSDS sheets, staff training records, and inspection findings.
6. Execute the Controls:
   • Apply the advised safety precautions.
   • Instruct staff members in safe handling techniques and PPE use.
7. Track and Check:
   • Frequent examination of the assessment guarantees compliance and efficacy.
   • Update the assessment if new substances are introduced or workplace policies shift.
8. Train Staff Members:
   • Teach employees about hazards and safety precautions for every hazardous chemical.
   • Ensure every employee has access to COSHH records.

What are the 10 Golden COSHH Rules?

1. Know the hazards: Examine MSDS and labels to understand substances.
2. Minimize handling: Reduce handling of dangerous chemicals wherever possible.
3. Replace substances: Use less hazardous alternatives to lower risks.
4. Apply proper controls: Use engineering controls such as ventilation or fume hoods.
5. Provide PPE: Equip employees with gloves, goggles, and other protective gear.
6. Follow safe handling practices: Store and dispose of hazardous materials correctly.
7. Label properly: Ensure all hazardous substances are clearly marked.
8. Train staff: Regularly teach employees COSHH awareness and safe practices.
9. Monitor health: Conduct regular health checks and air monitoring.
10. Review assessments: Keep COSHH evaluations up-to-date and revise as needed.

Download an MS Word COSHH Risk Assessment Template

Streamline your process with our free COSHH Risk Assessment Template in MS Word. This well-designed template includes sections for:

• Substance name and description
• Hazards identified
• Persons at risk
• Control measures
• Assessment review dates

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is a COSHH risk assessment necessary?
• It identifies and manages hazards from hazardous chemicals, ensuring compliance with legal standards and occupational safety.
• Who is responsible for COSHH risk assessments?
• Employers or business owners are responsible but may delegate to a qualified employee.
• How often should a COSHH risk assessment be reviewed?
• At least annually or whenever new substances, tools, or processes are introduced.
• What substances are covered by COSHH?
• Chemicals, fumes, dust, vapors, mists, nanomaterials, gases, and biological agents harmful to health.
• Can I use online COSHH templates?
• Yes, online templates are convenient and ensure required information is included. Customize them to your company’s needs.
• What happens if COSHH rules are violated?
• Non-compliance can lead to legal action, penalties, or increased workplace hazards.