Creating a Blank COSHH Assessment for Your Business

When it comes to managing hazardous substances in your workplace, having a clear and effective COSHH assessment is essential. But where do you start? How do you create a COSHH template that fits your business needs? In this post, I’ll walk you through the process of creating a blank COSHH assessment, explain what it is, and share practical tips to make sure your workplace stays safe and compliant.

Why COSHH Template Creation Matters

Creating a COSHH template is a smart move for any business that handles chemicals or hazardous substances. It helps you organise important information, identify risks, and put control measures in place. Without a proper template, you might miss key details or struggle to keep your assessments consistent.

A good COSHH template should be simple to use and adaptable to different substances. It should guide you through the steps of identifying hazards, assessing risks, and deciding on safety measures. This way, you can protect your employees and meet legal requirements without getting overwhelmed.

Here are some benefits of having a COSHH template ready:

• Saves time: You don’t have to start from scratch every time.

• Ensures consistency: All assessments follow the same format.

• Improves safety: Clear steps help you spot and control risks.

• Supports training: Easy for staff to understand and use.

  
  

If you want to get started quickly, you can find a blank coshh assessment that you can customise for your business.

COSHH template on a desk ready for use

How to Approach COSHH Template Creation

When creating your COSHH template, think about the information you need to capture. The goal is to make it straightforward for anyone in your business to complete the assessment accurately.

Here’s a simple step-by-step approach to designing your template:

1. Identify the substance

   Include the name, supplier, and any reference numbers. This helps track what you’re assessing.

   
   

2. Describe the hazards

   What dangers does the substance pose? Is it toxic, flammable, or corrosive? Use clear language.

   
   

3. Assess the risks

   Consider how people might be exposed and what could happen. Think about the likelihood and severity.

   
   

4. Control measures

   List the steps you will take to reduce or eliminate risks. This could be using protective equipment or changing work procedures.

   
   

5. Emergency procedures

   What should staff do if something goes wrong? Include first aid and spill response.

   
   

6. Review date

   Set a date to check the assessment again. This keeps it up to date.

   
   

Make sure your template has space for notes and signatures. This shows who completed the assessment and when.

Printed COSHH assessment form ready for completion

What is the COSHH Assessment?

COSHH stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health. It’s a legal requirement in the UK for businesses to assess and manage risks from hazardous substances. The COSHH assessment is the document that records this process.

The assessment helps you understand:

• What substances are used or produced at work.

• The health risks they pose.

• How to control exposure to protect workers.

  
  

By completing a COSHH assessment, you demonstrate that you have thought about safety and taken steps to reduce harm. It’s not just paperwork - it’s a practical tool to keep your workplace safe.

Some common examples of substances covered by COSHH include:

• Cleaning chemicals

• Paints and solvents

• Dust from wood or metal

• Fumes from welding or soldering

  
  

Remember, the assessment should be specific to your business and the substances you use. That’s why having a blank COSHH assessment template is so useful - you can tailor it to your needs.

Workshop with hazardous substances clearly labelled

Tips for Using Your COSHH Template Effectively

Once you have your COSHH template, how do you make sure it works well in practice? Here are some tips to help you get the most out of it:

• Train your team

Make sure everyone who needs to complete or use the assessment understands it. Run short training sessions or provide simple guides.

• Keep it accessible

Store your COSHH templates and completed assessments where staff can easily find them. This might be a shared drive or a physical folder.

• Update regularly

Review your assessments at least once a year or whenever you introduce new substances or processes.

• Involve your staff

Encourage workers to report any concerns or changes that might affect the assessment. They often spot risks you might miss.

• Use clear language

Avoid technical jargon. The goal is to make the assessment easy to understand for everyone.

• Check compliance

Make sure your assessments meet the latest legal requirements and guidance.

By following these tips, your COSHH template will become a valuable part of your health and safety routine.

Making Your Workplace Safer with a COSHH Template

Creating and using a blank COSHH assessment is a practical step towards a safer workplace. It helps you identify hazards, manage risks, and protect your team. Plus, it shows you take health and safety seriously.

If you haven’t started yet, why not download a blank coshh assessment and begin tailoring it to your business today? It’s easier than you think, and the benefits are clear.

Remember, safety is a continuous journey. Keep your assessments up to date, involve your team, and don’t hesitate to seek advice if you need it. With the right tools and approach, you can create a safer, healthier workplace for everyone.

Stay safe and take care!