Torbay Council

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Recording Assessments

Unless the assessment is so simple that it can be easily recalled and its conclusions explained, it should be put in writing. Reviews should take place regularly, at not less than five-yearly intervals, and in any case where it is no longer valid or there have been significant changes in the work.

Informing, Instructing and Training Employees

Must be carried out by employers regarding the substances and their associated risks and precautions. Sufficient information and instruction should be given on control measures, personal protective equipment, results of any exposure monitoring or health surveillance and emergency procedures.

The Steps in Making an Assessment

Checklist - COSHH

1Have you a complete inventory of substances used/generated in the workplace?Yes/No
2Have you identified any substances hazardous to health?Yes/No
3Have you gathered information about the substances, the work and working processes?Yes/No
- i.e. what hazards are involved?Yes/No
- i.e. what hazards are involved?Yes/No
4Have you evaluated the risks to health (either on an individual or group basis)?Yes/No
- i.e. the chance of exposure occurring?Yes/No
- what level of exposure could happen?Yes/No
- the duration of the exposureYes/No
- the frequency of the exposure?Yes/No
5Have you decided what needs to be done in terms of:
- preventing or controlling exposure?Yes/No
- maintaining control measures?Yes/No
- using control measures?Yes/No
- any monitoring/surveillance?Yes/No
- information, instruction and training?Yes/No
6Have you decided to record the assessment?Yes/No
7If "yes" to (6), have you decided on the extent, presentation and format of record?Yes/No
8Have you decided when each assessment should be reviewed?Yes/No
9Have you established a system or procedure to manage and record the above elements?Yes/No

References/Further Details

  1. Booklet L5-General COSSH ACOP, Carcinogens ACOP and Biological Agents ACOP(HSE) ISBN 0 7176 1670 3
  2. A step by step guide to COSHH assessment - HS(G) 97 (HSE) ISBN 0 7176 1446 8.
COSHH - a brief guide for employers IND(G) 136L (HSE).
  1. 7 steps to successful substitution of hazardous substances HS(G) 110 (HSE) ISBN 0 7176 0695 3.
  2. Health surveillance under COSHH (HSE) ISBN 9 780118 854474
  3. Booklet HS(G)54: Maintenance, examination and testing of local exhaust ventilation (HSE). ISBN 0-7176-1485-9
  4. Booklet HSG187: Control of Diesel Engine Exhaust Emissions in the Workplace. (HSE) ISBN 0-7176 1662 2



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