Health and Safety Executive
Working with substances hazardous to health
What you need to know about COSHH
Introduction
This leaflet describes how to control hazardous substances at work so that they do not cause ill health. It will help you understand what you need to do to comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (as amended) which apply to the way you work with these substances. If you run a small business or are self-employed, you need this information to make sure you are protecting your employees. If you run a medium-sized or large business, where decisions about controlling hazardous substances are more complex, you will also need professional advice. The leaflet will also be useful for trade union and employee health and safety representatives.
This is a web-friendly version of leaflet INDG136(rev4), revised 06/09
Why do I need to read this leaflet
Every year, thousands of workers are made ill by hazardous substances, contracting lung disease such as asthma, cancer and skin disease such as dermatitis. These diseases cost many millions of pounds each year to:
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industry, to replace the trained worker; society, in disability allowances and medicines; and individuals, who may lose their jobs.
You, as the employer, are responsible for taking effective measures to control exposure and protect health. These measures can also improve production or cut waste.
Looking after your business
Your aim in running your business is to make a profit. You know what you do, and how you are doing it. You know what 'processes' and 'tasks' are involved. You know the short cuts. Ensuring your workers remain healthy may also lead to healthy profits.
Myth 'Of course it's safe – we've always done it this way.' Reality Some
Which substances are harmful
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diseases take years to develop. If exposure is high because the task has always been done that way, maybe it's time for a change.

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