Updated chemicals advice praised by small businesses

Date:

04 November 2009

Release No:

098/2009

Easy to use guidance is available for businesses on how to deal with hazardous substances in the workplace.

The revised publication, "Working with substances hazardous to health", offers advice and guidance on working safely with a variety of substances - from hairdressing products to metal working fluids; from quarry dust to cleaning materials.

Representatives from small businesses who were involved in developing the guidance, and whose ideas were included in the revised publication in June, have praised it for being practical and user-friendly. Their opinions can be found in a report published this month

Small businesses make an important contribution to the economy.  They are also affected by a significant number of occupational health related issues each year, and helping them to comply with health and safety law is a key goal in the new HSE strategy. 

Steve Coldrick of HSE said: 'This is an example of how we are working with small businesses to provide them with the practical advice they need to protect their employees' health.'

HSE has also recently updated COSHH guidance on its website.  The new site contains case studies, example risk assessments, answers common queries and provides straightforward "how to" advice for businesses.

The report referred to in this release (RR 747) can be found on HSE's website at http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr737.pdf

For guidance on COSHH, visit http://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/index.htm

Notes to editors

1. Working with Substances Hazardous to health (INDG136 Rev4) is a leaflet written mainly for employers in small businesses to help them to meet their specific duties under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations. http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg136.pdf
2. A total of 24 small to medium sized organisations from industries where COSHH would be most applicable were represented at three workshops during this research.  Industries represented included: hairdressing, construction and motor vehicle repair.

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