Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace
The use of hazardous substances and dangerous goods should be minimised as much as practicable. Materials and substances with the lowest possible hazardous levels should be selected, whilst still meeting capability requirements.
Storage and use of hazardous substances should be in accordance with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and regulations for separation and quantities. Workers must be trained in safe handling techniques, as described in the SDS.
Where hazardous substances are necessary, Safety Data Sheets must be made available at all storage points. It is a legislative requirement that Risk Assessments are undertaken on all hazardous substances and the results communicated to all affected workers.
Ref Letter Consulting Services will undertake Chemical Risk Assessments to meet your legislative requirements.
Chemical Risk Assessments will consider: –
- Physical hazards of the substance
- Route of exposure
- Condition of exposure
- Toxicity
- Sensitisation, irritation, asphyxiation
- Ototoxic substances
- Additive effects
- Existing health conditions of workers
- Storage compatibility
Worker training documentation will be developed to include: –
- Safe handling
- Instructions for use
- Risk and control measures
- Exposure limits
- Handling precautions
- PPE required
- Emergency procedures
Red Letter Consulting will develop a Chemical Risk Register to manage legislative requirements.