Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)

Substances used in grounds maintenance can, if not used correctly prove to be hazardous to your health.

 Why:               Ignore hazardous substances today and the long-term effects may make you wish you had not tomorrow.

Outline:           This talk will cover: Risk assessments, hazards, precautions, and safe use of substances.

Risk Assessments

1. Each substance and associated process must be risk assessed to understand if:

1. Exposure to a substance can be eliminated.
2. Alternative work methods can be used to reduce the exposure.
3. A less hazardous substance can be used.

2.            Any substance with a warning label has the potential to cause harm. Do you understand the            hazard warning labels.

Q: Prior to using substances, what should you consider?

Hazards

1. How do hazardous substances get into the body?

1. Ingestion – swallowing chemicals or eating contaminated food.
2. Inhalation – breathing in harmful dust, fumes, or gasses.
3. Absorption – chemicals entering the blood stream through the skin, cuts etc.

2. Examples of hazardous substances you might use:

(a)           some adhesives                                (b)          diesel fuel

(c)           solvents                                               (d)          Fertilizer/Pesticides

(e)           resins                                                    (f)           epoxy-based paints

(g)           welding fumes                                   (h)          vehicle exhaust

1. Chemicals are not to be mixed unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically require such a process.

Q: Name three routes a substance can enter the body.

Precautions

1. Wear and maintain PPE provided.
2. Know where washing and first aid facilities are on site.
3. Ensure hazardous substances are stored in a secure location after use.
4. Ensure unwanted hazardous substances and used containers are disposed in the correct manner.

Q: Where should hazardous substances be put after use?

Use of Substances

1. Ensure you are trained prior to using hazardous substances.
2. Read and comply with information on the assessment, material safety data sheet and the product label.
3. Do not eat, drink, or smoke when handling hazardous substances.
4. Do not expose others to your fumes, dust, gas, or other dangers from hazardous substances.
5. Always wash at the end of a shift and prior to eating.

Q: Where can you obtain information about the