CoSHH in Schools and Colleges

Published Date: 25th October 2010

The use of hazardous substances within schools and colleges can present hazards to staff and pupils and as such control measures need to be put in place. The CoSHH regulations require employers to control substances that can harm workers’ and students health. Schools and colleges are required to be CoSHH compliant.

An inventory must be completed initially, which identifies all hazardous substances used and material safety data sheets should be obtained for each substance (safety data sheets should be obtained from the manufacturer or supplier to assist with the assessment). In schools hazardous substances can usually be found in school laboratories, practical workshops and print rooms etc. Caretakers and cleaners cupboards are also likely to contain hazardous substances.

The primary requirement for the control of hazardous substances is to conduct a CoSHH risk assessment before the use or generation of any such substances.

Any process which may expose staff and children to hazardous substances should not be carried out until a CoSHH risk assessment has been done and risks have been identified and control measures put in place to eliminate, or adequately control exposure. If any major procedural changes are required, first discuss with the Headteacher/Principal before implementing.

Any equipment required for controlling risk should be adequately maintained. This may include for example local exhaust ventilation (LEV), fume cupboards and personal protective equipment (PPE). Schools and colleges often produce a number of hazardous substances in technical departments and workshops that require LEV or general ventilation. For example substances such as: wood dust, welding fumes and dust from grinders.

Other departments containing hazardous substances include art rooms which may produce chemicals from the firing of clay in kilns and science departments which may emit chemical fumes.

All departmental staff should also be given information, instruction and training where necessary.

Smaller establishments such as primary schools will have fewer hazardous substances and so only one staff member may be responsible for carrying out risk assessments.  In secondary schools and FE Colleges a departmental approach will be necessary. Each department will have the responsibility of assessing the risks associated with substances being used. It is vital in both instances that the member of staff chosen to do the risk assessment is competent and has sufficient knowledge and experience of the work activities involved and the knowledge of substances used or generated. They must also have the ability to determine effective control measures.

It is important to note that CoSHH regulations are not specific to craft workshops and science labs, but every single area of the school or college.

If you are unsure if your company has an obligation to comply with the CoSHH regulations or you are unsure if any CoSHH hazards exist in your organisation, please call our free confidential H&S helpline or download our free CoSHH information pack. Please read 'What next?' below.

What next?