Why is COSHH or a similar chemical hazard control framework important?

• A. To assess and control exposure to hazardous substances and protect worker health.
• B. To increase production speed.
• C. To replace all safety training with paperwork.
• D. To ignore chemical hazards.

Answer: (A)

Protecting workers by controlling exposure to hazardous substances is what COSHH is all about. It requires identifying which chemicals are used, evaluating how people could be exposed (inhaling fumes, skin contact, spills), and putting in place controls to reduce that exposure to safe levels. Practical steps include ventilation, substitution to less hazardous substances, safe handling and storage, appropriate containment, and providing training and information so workers know how to work safely. Regular monitoring of exposure and health surveillance when needed helps ensure controls remain effective over time. The goal is to prevent harm to health, not to rush production, not to replace training with paperwork, and certainly not to ignore hazards.