What is this document?
INDG136 is the HSE's introductory guide to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). It provides a practical overview of your legal duties when employees work with or are exposed to hazardous substances.
The guide is designed for employers who need to understand the basics of COSHH without wading through detailed technical regulations. It explains what counts as a hazardous substance, how to assess the risks, and what control measures you should put in place.
Who needs to read this?
- Small business owners who use chemicals, cleaning products, or other hazardous substances
- Care providers handling cleaning agents, disinfectants, or medical substances
- Managers responsible for workplace health and safety
- Health and safety representatives advising on chemical risks
- Anyone new to COSHH who needs a clear starting point
Key points covered
The guide walks through the essential steps of COSHH compliance:
- Identifying hazardous substances in your workplace, including chemicals, fumes, dusts, and biological agents
- Assessing the risks to your employees from exposure
- Deciding on control measures to prevent or reduce exposure
- Ensuring controls are properly used and maintained
- Monitoring exposure where necessary
- Health surveillance requirements for certain substances
- Training and information for employees who work with hazardous substances
How this applies to you
Start by making a list of all substances used in your workplace. Check safety data sheets for hazard information. Consider who might be exposed and how, whether through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion.
For each hazardous substance, you need to either eliminate it, substitute it with something safer, or put controls in place. Controls might include ventilation, protective equipment, or safe working procedures.
Keep records of your assessments and review them regularly, especially if your work processes change or new substances are introduced.
For more detailed guidance on managing chemical hazards, see our COSHH topic guide. If you handle substances that could also pose a fire risk, you may also need to consider fire safety requirements.
This guide provides a starting point for understanding your COSHH duties. Complex situations involving multiple hazardous substances, high-risk processes, or vulnerable workers may require specialist assessment.