Example COSHH risk assessment - DIY shop

Important reminder

This example risk assessment shows the kind of approach a small business might take. Use it as a guide to think through some of the hazards in your business and the steps you need to take to control the risks. Please note that it is not a generic risk assessment that you can just put your company name on and adopt wholesale without any thought. This would not satisfy the law - and would not be effective in protecting people.

Every business is different - you need to think through the hazards and controls required in your business for yourself.

Company name: DIY Shop Date assessment made:  
Department:   Date discussed with employees:  
Step 1
Substance
Step 2 Step 3 Step 4
Action
Whats the hazard? What harm, and who? What are you doing already? What improvements do you need? Who When Check
Gloss solvent-based paint colour mix and match - breathe in solvent, skin contact Irritating vapours and irritating to skin          
  Shop worker operating mixer, handling pigments Keep paints cool. Spill clean-up kit. Good ventilation Lidded bin for wipes and waste - put outside at night. Disposable nitrile gloves      
Water-based paint colour mix and match - skin contact Shop worker operating mixer, handling pigments Spill clean-up kit Lidded bin for wipes and waste - put outside at night.      
Mixer cleaning product - skin contact Flammable, irritating to eyes and skin          
  Shop worker - skin contact Heavy duty gloves, changed when worn out Disposable gloves, discard after use      
 
Also: Action taken Action needed      
Thorough examination & test - COSHH          
Supervision          
Instruction and training On mixer        
Emergency plans Evacuation practice        
Health surveillance None        
Monitoring None        
Step 5
Review date:
 
  1. Review your assessment - make sure you are not sliding back.
  2. Any significant change in the work?  Check the assessment and change it if necessary
Other hazards needing attention: flammable liquids, slips, manual handling, unsupervised children

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2023-04-17