Substance substitution
You can prevent exposure to a hazardous substance by:
- substituting it with another substance which presents less, or no risk;
- using another process which doesn't create a hazardous form of that substance.
For example
- substituting a powder for a liquid;
- removing the need to weigh out powders by buying it pre-packed.
There are seven steps to practical, well thought out decisions about substitution.
- Decide whether the substance or process is a hazard. Is there a significant risk involved in storing, using or disposing of a substance?
- Identify the alternatives.
- Think about what could happen if you use the alternatives.
- Compare the alternatives with each other and with the substance or process you are using at the moment.
- Decide whether to substitute.
- Introduce the substitute.
- Assess how it is working.
You can speak to trade associations, others carrying out similar work, customers and suppliers for information if you are considering substitution.