Published 27 Jan 2023
What is a COSHH Assessment?
A COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Assessment, or COSHH Risk Assessment is a health and safety evaluation process and document. It aims to identify and evaluate hazards and risks from hazardous substances used in the workplace or produced during operational processes and devise control measures to reduce or eliminate identified risks. The HSE requires a COSHH assessment be performed as a standard safety measure to protect employees from harmful substances and avoid adverse health effects.
HSE COSHH Assessment Template
This COSHH assessment template was based on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and was converted using SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor). Start by listing chemical hazards and substances present in the workplace. Provide details of their usage and the people who may be exposed. Next record information on how the substance could cause harm and how much of the substance will be used for the job. Record Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) and emergency procedures set by the management. Next, complete the information about the methods of prevention or control of exposure. Lastly, provide an overall rating of the assessment and affix a digital signature to validate the audit.
In this article
- Why Perform COSHH Assessments (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)?
- 6 Essential Elements of a COSHH Assessment Template
- How to conduct a COSHH Assessment with SafetyCulture Templates & Tools
- Top 5 COSHH Assessment Templates
Why Perform COSHH Assessments (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)?
Exposure to chemical substances is a common occupational hazard. An HSE report found 6,000 self-reported cases of skin disease from 2015 to 2018 due to hazardous substance exposure. Skin disease from chemical exposure has profound detrimental effects on workers’ daily activities, ability to work, and self-image. Occupations most affected include metalworkers, machine operators, and other industrial workers dealing with hazardous substances. Performing COSHH assessments can ensure a safer workspace that can help boost employee productivity and morale.
6 Essential Elements of a COSHH Assessment Template
An efficient COSHH assessment should document these 6 essential elements:
- Detailed listing of hazardous substances present in the workplace
- Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) and health risks
- Control measures to be implemented (PPE, First Aid Measures)
- Information on proper storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals
- Authorization by employer or supervisor
How to conduct a COSHH Assessment with SafetyCulture Templates & Tools
Carrying out a COSHH assessment can be a regulatory burden for inspectors because of the large amount of paperwork involved. Using a mobile inspection software like SafetyCulture can help your business perform more effective COSHH assessments to prevent injuries or any adverse health effects from harmful chemicals.
SafetyCulture is the world’s most powerful inspection app and is used to perform paperless evaluations, assessments, and inspections. Generate comprehensive reports of your COSHH assessments and electronically share them using your mobile device while on-site.
Download this collection of ready-to-use COSHH assessment templates referencing HSE online sources and converted using SafetyCulture.
Top 5 COSHH Assessment Templates
COSHH Risk Assessment Template
This COSHH risk assessment template can be used to prevent serious illnesses and health problems by controlling the exposure to hazardous substances. Evaluate hazards associated with the activity. Record the control measures and personal protective equipment to be used when handling these substances. Also take note of first aid measures in case of an emergency. Next record means of disposing hazardous wastes and contaminated containers. Provide a risk rating after following the control measures. Generate reports while on-site.
COSHH Register Template
This COSHH Register Template can be used to note the chemical substances used in the workplace, their storage location, and MSDS location.
Chemical Handling, Storage, and Disposal Checklist
This self-inspection checklist can be used as a safety precaution before using and handling chemical substances at work. Ensure that the staff are trained and fully equipped before performing the task. Inspect chemical containers for leakage, damage or dents. Also check if the work area has a proper ventilation system installed.
Safety Data Sheet Template
This self-inspection checklist can be used as a safety precaution before using and handling chemical substances at work. Ensure that the staff are trained and fully equipped before performing the task. Inspect chemical containers for leakage, damage or dents. Also check if the work area has a proper ventilation system installed.
SafetyCulture Content Specialist
Jona Tarlengco
