Health and Safety Management

A formal management system or framework can help an organisation manage health and safety such as the internationally recognised standard – OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Employers have duties concerning the provision and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at work.

PPE is equipment that will protect the user against health or safety risks at work. It can include items such as safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear and safety harnesses. It also includes respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

PPE should be properly checked and assessed before use to make sure it is fit for purpose as well as being maintained and stored correctly.

All PPE should be provided with instructions on how to use it safely with correct training, direction and guidance given to all employees who use it.

Health and Safety Management

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)

COSHH (2002) is the law that requires employers to control substances that are hazardous to health. Organisations can prevent or reduce workers exposure to hazardous substances by:

Finding out what the health hazards are;
Deciding how to prevent harm to health (risk assessment);
Providing control measures to reduce harm to health;
Making sure they are used;
Keeping all control measures in good working order;
Providing information, instruction and training for employees and others;
Providing monitoring and health surveillance in appropriate cases;
Planning for emergencies.

Most businesses use substances, or products that are mixtures of substances. Some processes create substances. These could cause harm to employees, contractors and other people.

Sometimes substances are easily recognised as harmful. Common substances such as paint, bleach or dust from natural materials may also be harmful.

The video below is a detailed training video regarding COSHH