COSHH facts for kids
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) is a set of important rules in the United Kingdom. These rules help make sure that companies protect their workers and other people from dangers caused by certain materials used at work. Think of it as a safety guide for handling chemicals and other risky substances.
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What is COSHH?
COSHH stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health. It's a law in the UK that tells employers (the people who run businesses) how to keep everyone safe. It focuses on preventing harm from things like chemicals, dust, fumes, and even germs that can make people sick.
Why is COSHH Important?
COSHH is super important because it helps prevent accidents and illnesses. Without these rules, people could get hurt or sick from dangerous materials they work with every day. It makes sure that workplaces are safe and healthy for everyone.
What Do Companies Need to Do?
Companies have several key tasks they must follow because of COSHH. These steps help them manage risks and keep people safe.
Finding Dangers
First, companies must find out what dangerous materials are used in their workplace. They need to know which substances could harm people's health. This means checking everything from cleaning products to special chemicals.
Planning for Safety
After finding the dangers, companies must decide how to prevent harm. This is called a risk assessment. They figure out the best ways to stop people from getting sick or hurt. This might involve changing how a task is done or using safer materials.
Providing Safety Tools
Companies must give workers the right tools and equipment to stay safe. This could include things like special gloves, masks, or safety glasses. They also need to make sure these safety tools are always available and in good condition.
Training and Information
It's not enough to just give out safety gear. Companies must also teach their workers how to use these tools correctly. They need to give clear information about the dangers of certain materials and how to work safely with them. Everyone needs to know the rules.
Checking Health and Emergencies
Sometimes, companies need to check on their workers' health. This happens if workers are around very risky materials. They also need to plan for emergencies, like if a dangerous chemical spills. Having a plan helps everyone know what to do quickly to stay safe.
