Why is COSHH Assessment Software Essential for Employers?

According to the International Labour Organisation, hazardous substances are estimated to be the cause of 651,279 deaths among workers annually. This staggering figure underscores the need for comprehensive COSHH risk assessments, a crucial step in safeguarding workers’ well-being.

COSHH, or Control of Substances Hazardous to Health, encapsulates the regulations and practices designed to protect individuals from hazardous substances encountered in the workplace. It spans various chemicals, dust, fumes, biological agents, and more, posing risks to health when not managed effectively. A hazardous substances risk assessment involves identifying, evaluating, and controlling these substances to mitigate potential harm. COSHH assessment software can help you digitize the process, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of these assessments.

Let’s find out how it enables continuous, comprehensive monitoring and management of hazardous substances, simplifying compliance, and safeguarding workplace health.

Table of Contents

What is COSHH Assessment Software?
Benefits of Using COSHH Assessment Software
Key Features of COSHH Assessment Software
Simplify COSHH Assessment with a COSHH Risk Assessment Software
FREE & Customizable COSHH Assessment Templates
Additional Risk Assessment Templates: Download for FREE
Choosing the Right COSHH Assessment Software: Factors to Consider
What is COSHH Risk Assessment?
Why are COSHH Risk Assessments Important?
Hazardous Substances that Need COSHH Assessment
Who Needs to Perform a COSHH Risk Assessment?
What are the COSHH Symbols and their Meanings?
What is the Difference Between SDS and COSHH?

What is COSHH Assessment Software?

COSHH risk assessment software is a digital tool designed to help organizations manage and mitigate risks associated with hazardous substances. COSHH assessment software automates and streamlines the COSHH risk assessment process. It involves identifying, evaluating, and controlling chemical hazards in the workplace. Its main purpose is to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, reduce human error, and enhance overall workplace safety by providing a systematic and efficient way to manage chemical risks.

Benefits of Using COSHH Assessment Software

Let’s look at the benefits COSHH risk assessment software brings to your organization.

Increased Efficiency

By automating many aspects of the risk assessment process, COSHH assessment software significantly increases efficiency. Tasks that typically require considerable time and effort, such as data entry, risk evaluation, and report generation, can be completed quickly and accurately.

Enhanced Accuracy

The COSHH assessment software reduces the likelihood of human error by standardizing assessment processes and providing access to accurate, up-to-date information. It is crucial for effective risk management and regulatory compliance.

Centralized Data Management

COSHH assessment software centralizes all data related to hazardous substances, assessments, and control measures. It makes it easier to manage and retrieve information, ensuring that all relevant data is readily available for decision-making and compliance purposes.

Cost Savings

By improving efficiency, accuracy, and safety, COSHH assessment software can lead to significant cost savings. Reduced administrative burden, fewer compliance fines, and lower incident rates contribute to overall cost-effectiveness, making the COSHH assessment app a valuable investment for any business dealing with hazardous substances.

👉 Explore the benefits of using a mobile inspection app for conducting workplace inspections.

Key Features of COSHH Assessment Software

Here are the key features of COSHH risk assessment software.

Customizable Templates for Different Hazardous Substances

COSHH risk assessment software offers customizable templates tailored for various hazardous substances. Customization allows businesses to adjust the templates to specific needs, improving the accuracy and relevance of the assessments.

Integrated Hazard Databases and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Management

The COSHH assessment software typically includes integrated hazard databases and SDS management systems. This feature provides instant access to up-to-date information on thousands of hazardous substances, including their properties, associated risks, and recommended control measures.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts for Hazard Control

Real-time monitoring capabilities of the COSHH risk assessment app enable businesses to continuously check hazardous substance levels and conditions in the workplace. The COSHH assessment software can generate alerts when conditions exceed safe thresholds, allowing for immediate action to mitigate risks.

Comprehensive Reporting and Documentation Tools

Effective reporting and documentation are crucial for compliance and safety audits. COSHH risk assessment software includes comprehensive tools for generating detailed reports and maintaining thorough documentation of all assessments, controls, and monitoring activities. These tools ensure that businesses can demonstrate compliance with regulations and quickly produce necessary documentation during inspections.

User-Friendly Interfaces and Mobile Access

Modern COSHH assessment software is designed with user-friendly interfaces that simplify navigation and use. Many COSHH risk assessment software also offer mobile access, enabling employees to perform assessments, access data, and receive alerts on the go. It ensures that safety management is not confined to a desktop environment, making it more accessible and responsive.

Simplify COSHH Assessment with a COSHH Risk Assessment Software

Digitization has transformed how assessments are handled, and GoAudits is a valuable tool for simplifying COSHH compliance. With the GoAudits COSHH assessment software, COSHH risk assessments become seamless, offering streamlined data entry, easy evidence attachment, and error reduction.

GoAudits COSHH assessment app & software enables you to do the following and more:

Conduct inspections using your mobile device, even offline. Capture photos, add notes, and compile all information in one place, eliminating the need for paper forms.
Generate professional, real-time reports with detailed insights. Identify and address risks easily with comprehensive analytics.
Assign tasks for any issues found, monitor progress, and document evidence of completed actions. Ensure no tasks slip through the cracks with robust tracking and accountability features.
Set up custom workflows to share reports, assign actions, and send reminders. Ensure the right people are involved at the right time, enhancing team collaboration.
Use interactive dashboards to gain insights into trends and patterns, helping drive continuous improvement.

Try the GoAudits COSHH Assessment Software for FREE

It’s easy to get started with GoAudits! Sign up for a free 14-day trial (we even digitize your checklists for free!). Or even better: Book a personalized demo with one of our experts!

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FREE & Customizable COSHH Assessment Templates

With GoAudits, you can complete health and safety assessments from anywhere, at any time. Here are a few COSHH risk assessment templates to get you started:

Additional Risk Assessment Templates: Download for FREE

COSHH assessments are a form of risk assessment designed to identify and assess hazards linked to the handling of hazardous materials. COSHH zooms in on risky materials, while regular risk assessments look at all hazards. In addition to COSHH assessment templates, the risk checklists below help in developing comprehensive control measures to reduce risks and ensure workplace safety for both employees and customers.

Choosing the Right COSHH Assessment Software: Factors to Consider

Here are the key factors you should consider to choosing the right COSHH risk assessment software:

User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface is essential to minimize the learning curve and increase adoption rates among employees. Look for COSHH assessment software with intuitive navigation, clear instructions, and accessible help resources.

Customization and Flexibility

Every organization has different requirements. Choose COSHH risk assessment software that allows for customization in assessment templates, risk-scoring methods, and reporting formats to adapt to your specific processes and workflows.

Compliance and Regulatory Support

Ensure the COSHH risk assessment software supports compliance with relevant health and safety regulations. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in legislation and generate reports that meet regulatory requirements, helping maintain legal compliance and reducing the risk of penalties.

Integration with Other Systems

Integration with other business systems, such as HR, ERP, and incident management systems, ensures a seamless flow of information. Choose COSHH risk assessment software that can integrate with your existing systems to streamline processes and improve overall efficiency.

Learn More: How to Improve Near Miss Incident Reporting in Workplaces

Data Security

Data security measures are essential, especially when handling sensitive information. Ensure the COSHH assessment app uses encryption, secure access controls, and regular security audits to protect your data from breaches and unauthorized access.

Support and Training

Reliable support and training are vital for successful implementation. Opt for a software provider that offers comprehensive training programs, user manuals, and responsive customer support to assist your team effectively.

Cost and Return on Investment (ROI)

While cost is a significant factor, consider the ROI of the COSHH risk assessment software. Evaluate its potential to improve efficiency, reduce risks, and ensure compliance. This can help justify the initial investment and highlight the long-term benefits.

What is COSHH Risk Assessment?

A COSHH risk assessment is a systematic process used to evaluate and manage the risks associated with hazardous substances in the workplace. The purpose of a COSHH assessment is to protect employees from health risks posed by exposure to harmful substances.

The assessment involves identifying hazardous substances, evaluating the risks to health, and implementing control measures to minimize exposure.

👉 Who performs COSHH risk assessments?

COSHH risk assessments are typically performed by employers. These can be performed in collaboration with health and safety officers. The responsibility lies with the employer to ensure these assessments are conducted to identify and control the risks associated with hazardous substances in the workplace. COSHH risk assessments should be performed regularly, at least annually, and whenever there are significant changes to work processes, new hazardous substances are introduced, or an incident occurs that suggests the current assessment may no longer be valid.

What are the Steps Involved in a COSHH Risk Assessment?

Listed below are the steps involved in a COSHH risk assessment:

Identification of hazardous substances
Assessment of risks
Determining exposed individuals
Implementing control measures
Regular review and maintenance

Why are COSHH Risk Assessments Important?

Here are the primary reasons why you need a COSHH risk assessment:

Protecting Worker Health: COSHH risk assessment ensures a thorough understanding of the substances used, their risks, and necessary precautions, preventing acute and long-term health issues.
Preventing Workplace Accidents: Neglecting COSHH assessments heightens the risk of accidents. Understanding substance properties and exposure limits mitigates accidents like spills, inhalation risks, or chemical reactions, enhancing overall workplace safety.
Legal Implications: Failing to comply may lead to fines, legal action, or even closure due to endangering employee safety and violating health and safety regulations.
Regulatory Mandates: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) mandates employers to manage hazardous substances effectively. COSHH regulations cover a broad spectrum, from traditional chemicals to nanomaterials, spanning various industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and construction.
Data-Driven Control Measures: A comprehensive assessment provides crucial data for implementing tailored control measures. This includes substance properties, health impacts, exposure limits, quantity, and surveillance results.

Hazardous Substances that Need COSHH Assessment

COSHH assessments categorize substances into two types: generic and specific. Generic assessments cover widely used substances with known hazards, while specific assessments delve into less familiar or situation-specific substances, often needing specialist input for detailed evaluation.

According to HSE, the following substances are hazardous to health, mandating a COSHH risk assessment:

Chemicals: Substances like solvents, acids, alkalis, and pesticides along with products containing these chemicals warrant assessment due to their potential health risks.
Dust: Wood dust and silica dust generated from various industrial processes pose respiratory threats, necessitating thorough assessment for exposure control.
Fumes: Welding fumes and soldering fumes, often containing harmful particulates and gases, require assessment to mitigate respiratory hazards.
Biological Agents: Bacteria, viruses, and molds in lab settings or healthcare facilities need assessment to prevent infections and health risks to workers.
Mists and Vapors: Inhalation of mists and vapors, often encountered in industrial processes or cleaning activities, can pose health risks that require careful assessment.
Gases and Asphyxiating Gases: Hazardous gases like chlorine or carbon monoxide, as well as asphyxiating gases, demand assessment due to their severe health impact and potential fatalities.

Who Needs to Perform a COSHH Risk Assessment?

Employers are responsible for carrying out COSHH risk assessments to identify and control the risks posed by hazardous substances in the workplace. This includes identifying all hazardous substances used or produced in the workplace, assessing the risks they pose to workers’ health, and implementing appropriate control measures. Listed below are some examples of substances that need a COSHH risk assessment:

Chemicals: Such as cleaning agents, solvents, and pesticides
Fumes: Generated from welding, soldering, or chemical reactions
Vapors: Emitted by paints, adhesives, and certain fuels
Dust: Arising from construction materials, woodwork, or certain manufacturing processes
Gases: Compressed gases or refrigerants used in various industries
Biological Agents: Germs or microorganisms causing diseases

What are the COSHH Symbols and their Meanings?

Understanding the COSHH symbols provided by the GB Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals Regulation (GB CLP) is crucial for enhancing worker safety through effective communication. Familiarizing oneself with these symbols can significantly reduce the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses.

The table below highlights the symbols and their meanings.

Symbols	Meanings
Explosives	Indicates substances that may explode under certain conditions, posing a significant risk of injury or damage.
Flammable	Represents materials that can catch fire easily and sustain combustion, leading to fire hazards.
Oxidizing	Indicates chemicals that promote combustion by providing oxygen or other oxidizing agents, increasing fire hazards.
Gas Under Pressure	Denotes substances stored under pressure, which can lead to explosive ruptures or cause physical hazards if mishandled.
Corrosive	Indicates substances that cause severe damage or destruction to living tissues upon contact, posing serious health risks.
Toxic	Represents materials that, when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed, can cause severe health issues or even death.
Harmful/Irritant	Denotes substances causing mild irritation upon contact but can result in harmful effects upon prolonged exposure or in large quantities.
Serious Health Hazards	Represent chemicals that pose chronic health risks or can cause serious long-term damage to health.
Environmental Hazards	Indicates substances posing risks to the environment, such as aquatic life, soil, or vegetation.

COSHH Symbols and hazard pictograms - GoAudits — *You can learn more about COSHH symbols and their meanings on the HSE network.*

What is the Difference Between SDS and COSHH?

SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and COSHH both contribute to workplace safety but focus on different aspects. Let’s see how.

	SDS	COSHH
Purpose	It provides detailed information about the hazards of individual substances.	It regulates the assessment and control of hazardous substances in the workplace.
Focus	Chemical composition, physical properties, toxicological effects, and safety precautions.	Identification of hazards, risk assessment, control measures, and training.
Role in workplace safety	It provides essential information for understanding the hazards of substances.	It provides a structured framework for managing the risks associated with hazardous substances in the workplace and protecting worker health.

Digitally conducting COSHH risk assessments and health and safety audits offers multiple advantages. It saves time and money, improves information access, and better manages workplace hazards.

Switching to the COSHH risk assessment app or software can help you meet legal obligations and make your work environment safer and more efficient.

👉 Try GoAudits COSHH Assessment Software for FREE.

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