COSHH Buying Guide
What is COSHH?
COSHH stands for "Control of Substances Hazardous to Health." It is a set of regulations in the United Kingdom that require employers to control harmful substances.
COSHH regulations are intended to safeguard workers from the risks connected with job exposure to hazardous substances. Rules and regulations compel businesses to assess risks, manage exposure, and provide employees with information and training on the hazards and proper handling of certain substances.
Understanding The Hazard Groups
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations categorizes hazardous substances into nine main groups based on their potential risks to health.
Explosive
Explosive compounds can rapidly release energy, causing serious injuries, fatalities, and property damage. Employers must follow strict regulations for handling, storing, and transporting explosive materials, including risk assessments, safe handling procedures, and adequate training.
Flammable
Flammable substances include materials that can catch fire and sustain combustion, such as liquids, gases, and solids. Examples are volatile solvents, gases like propane, and certain metals. Employers need to understand these properties to implement effective control measures.
Oxidising
Oxidising substances release oxygen or other oxidising agents, promoting combustion of other substances. Examples include hydrogen peroxide, chlorine bleach, and nitric acid. Proper handling is crucial to prevent fires or explosions.
Corrosive
Corrosive substances cause severe damage to living tissue and corrode materials. Examples include strong acids like sulfuric acid and alkalis like sodium hydroxide. Safe storage and handling are essential.
Toxic
Toxic substances harm health through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Examples include heavy metals like lead, and chemicals like formaldehyde. Proper safety measures are vital to prevent serious health effects.
Hazardous to the Environment
These substances pose risks to human health and the environment, contaminating air, water, and soil. Examples include heavy metals and pesticides. Effective waste management and pollution prevention are crucial.
Health Hazard / Hazard to the Ozone Layer
Includes chemicals that deplete the ozone layer, like CFCs. Strict controls on production, use, and disposal are required. These substances can also cause respiratory issues or other serious problems.
Serious Health Hazard
Encompasses substances causing severe harm, such as asbestos, benzene, and lead. These can cause serious health issues like cancer, neurological damage, and organ failure.
Gas Under Pressure
Refers to substances stored in pressurized containers, posing risks like explosions and asphyxiation. Examples include compressed air and liquefied petroleum gas. Proper handling and storage are crucial.
What is a COSHH Cabinet?
A COSHH cabinet, or hazardous substance storage cabinet, is designed to safely store hazardous substances in compliance with COSHH regulations.
Made from robust materials like steel, these cabinets prevent unauthorized access and minimize risks of exposure or contamination. Features may include spill containment trays, ventilation systems, and warning labels.
Types of COSHH Cabinets
COSHH cabinets are specialized storage units designed to safely store hazardous substances in the workplace.
They are categorized based on the types of hazardous materials they are intended to contain.
Flammable Liquids Cabinet
These cabinets store flammable substances like solvents and fuels. Constructed with fire-resistant materials and features like ventilation to minimize ignition risks. Typically yellow.
Flammable Liquids Cabinet
These cabinets store flammable substances like solvents and fuels. Constructed with fire-resistant materials and features like ventilation to minimize ignition risks. Typically yellow.
Chemical Storage Cabinets
Designed for hazardous chemicals, featuring secure locking mechanisms and ventilation. Often red for easy identification.
Pesticides & Insecticides Cabinets
Stores agricultural chemicals securely, preventing accidental exposure and contamination. Typically green.
Corrosive Chemicals (Acid & Alkali) Cabinets
Safely stores acids and bases, preventing damage to tissues and materials. Features spill containment trays and secure locks. Often white.
What To Look For When Buying COSHH Cabinets
When buying COSHH cabinets, consider the following features:
Heavy Duty Construction
Built for frequent access and storing strong chemicals
Locking Doors
To restrict access to authorised personnel only
Colour Coding
Facilitates easy identification of hazardous materials according to their nature
Shelving
Multiple shelves for organizing various sizes and quantities of chemicals
Sump Trays & Capacity
Essential for containing spills and preventing environmental contamination
Why Buy From VSafety?
Meeting your fire safety obligations are an essential consideration for any organisation with premises, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to deal with us. Join the thousands of customers who have benefitted from our exceptional customer service, low prices, comprehensive range, and quality product guidance.
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