If you use or generate chemicals or other hazardous substances at work, they could put people's health at risk. They could cause diseases including asthma, dermatitis or cancer.
The chemicals you use at work may include products you buy to use in:
- your core business
- maintaining your equipment
- general cleaning
The term ‘chemical’ can include hazardous substances you create as part of your work processes. For example, dust created by cutting wood or stone.
Using chemicals at work
If you’re an employer, you must control the use of chemicals at work. To do this you need to assess the risks in your workplace and implement and maintain effective control measures.
COSHH
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) require you to adequately control exposure to materials in the workplace that cause ill health.
Safety data sheets
If you buy a chemical product that is classified as 'dangerous to supply', it will come with a safety data sheet (SDS). This will help you to make a risk assessment. An SDS describes the hazards the chemical presents. It will also give you information on handling, storage and emergency measures in case of accident.
Find out more about safety data sheets.
Lead
If you use or work with lead you can put your health at risk, as lead dust, fume or vapour can cause headaches, stomach pains and anaemia.
Find out about working safely with lead.
Fire and explosion
If you use or work with chemicals that can cause a risk of fire and explosion, read our guidance on fire and explosion.
Biocides and pesticides
If you use or work with pesticides or biocides read our: