// LEGISLATION
The Health and Safety Executive are the government body responsible for the regulation and enforcement of work related risks to people in the work place. Un surprisingly fume and gas exposure/contact is one of the fundamental values with the COSHH (control of substances hazard to health) regulations setting out exposure limits, preventative guidelines and on going reductions into the contact between people and dangerous gas and particulates.
Under COSHH companies must take steps to prevent, control, maintain and monitor fume and gas exposure in the workplace (see step 3).
// STEP 1 ASSESS THE RISKS
Assess the risks to health from hazardous substances used in or created by your workplace activities.
// STEP 2 DECIDE WHAT PRECAUTIONS ARE NEEDED
You must not carry out work which could expose your employees to hazardous substances without first considering the risks and the necessary precautions, and what else you need to do to comply with COSHH.
// STEP 3 PREVENT OR ADEQUATELY CONTROL EXPOSURE
You must prevent your employees being exposed to hazardous substances. Where preventing exposure is not reasonably practicable, then you must adequately control it.
// STEP 4 ENSURE THAT CONTROL MEASURES ARE USED AND MAINTAINED
Ensure that control measures are used and maintained properly and that safety procedures are followed.
// STEP 5 MONITOR THE EXPOSURE
Monitor the exposure of employees to hazardous substances, if necessary.
// STEP 6 CARRY OUT APPROPRIATE HEALTH SURVEILLANCE
Carry out appropriate health surveillance where your assessment has shown this is necessary or where COSHH sets specific requirements.
