Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
Substances used in grounds maintenance can, if not used correctly prove to be hazardous to your health.
 Why:              Ignore hazardous substances today and the long-term effects may make you wish you had not tomorrow.
Outline:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â This talk will cover: Risk assessments, hazards, precautions, and safe use of substances.
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Risk Assessments
- Each substance and associated process must be risk assessed to understand if:
- Exposure to a substance can be eliminated.
- Alternative work methods can be used to reduce the exposure.
- A less hazardous substance can be used.
2.           Any substance with a warning label has the potential to cause harm. Do you understand the           hazard warning labels.
Q: Prior to using substances, what should you consider?
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Hazards
1. How do hazardous substances get into the body?
- Ingestion – swallowing chemicals or eating contaminated food.
- Inhalation – breathing in harmful dust, fumes, or gasses.
- Absorption – chemicals entering the blood stream through the skin, cuts etc.
2. Examples of hazardous substances you might use:
(a)          some adhesives                               (b)         diesel fuel
(c)          solvents                                              (d)         Fertilizer/Pesticides
(e)          resins                                                   (f)          epoxy-based paints
(g)          welding fumes                                  (h)         vehicle exhaust
1. Chemicals are not to be mixed unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically require such a process.
Q: Name three routes a substance can enter the body.
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Precautions
- Wear and maintain PPE provided.
- Know where washing and first aid facilities are on site.
- Ensure hazardous substances are stored in a secure location after use.
- Ensure unwanted hazardous substances and used containers are disposed in the correct manner.
Q: Where should hazardous substances be put after use?
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Use of Substances
- Ensure you are trained prior to using hazardous substances.
- Read and comply with information on the assessment, material safety data sheet and the product label.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke when handling hazardous substances.
- Do not expose others to your fumes, dust, gas, or other dangers from hazardous substances.
- Always wash at the end of a shift and prior to eating.
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Q: Where can you obtain information about the
Hazardous Substances Hierarch of Controls: Eliminate-Reduce-Substitute-Protect. |
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