The safety of employees should always be a top priority for any organisation. With the introduction of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), it has become vitally important for employers to ensure that they are undertaking thorough risk assessments and taking steps to reduce and manage risks associated with hazardous substances.
One such substance is sodium hypochlorite, which is commonly used in industries such as food processing and water treatment. This blog will discuss the importance of carrying out a COSHH risk assessment when dealing with it and ways to minimise risks and maximise safety.
Sodium hypochlorite is a chemical compound that is composed of chlorine and sodium hydroxide; it is commonly used as an industrial bleach or disinfectant due to its strong oxidising properties.
It has a wide range of uses, including water treatment, bleaching wood pulp, domestic use (e.g., as laundry bleach), swimming pool sanitation, food processing and medical applications. However, it can be hazardous if proper steps are not taken to protect workers from potential exposure.
Due to the potential hazards associated with sodium hypochlorite, employers must carry out thorough COSHH risk assessments before using this chemical in their workplace. It should include an analysis of the potential health hazards posed by sodium hypochlorite (e.g., skin irritation, respiratory irritation/damage), the concentration of the product being used, how it will be handled (e.g., stored/transported) and what personal protective equipment will be provided to workers who may come into contact with it.
The employer should also look at ways to mitigate or eliminate risks associated with using this substance by introducing appropriate engineering controls (e.g., ventilation systems) and work practices (e.g., storing away from other chemicals).
Employers must take proactive steps towards ensuring worker safety when working with hazardous substances.
This includes carrying out thorough COSHH risk assessments before use, providing appropriate personal protective equipment where necessary, introducing appropriate measures for safe storage/handling/transportation etc., educating staff about the potential hazards posed by the product and monitoring employee exposure levels regularly.
By doing so, employers can ensure that their employees are kept safe from potential harm while still efficiently completing their tasks without compromising on quality standards or production output.
Many businesses that handle sodium hypochlorite have suffered costly losses due to not hiring the right COSHH risk assessment company. Below are some reasons why you should only work with an experienced specialist in the field to avoid these complications.
To get trusted and experienced advice on performing a sodium hypochlorite COSHH risk assessment, talk to the specialists at Sevron Ltd today by calling +44(0)28 4378 0470 or via email at support@sevron.co.uk.
Our team of experts possesses years’ worth of expertise in aiding companies to meet safety regulations, reduce risks and create more secure work atmospheres for employers as well as employees.
We trust that you found this blog post useful and thought-provoking. If you’re intrigued to learn even more about risk assessment, we warmly invite you to delve further into our other writings, such as The best guide to WD-40 COSHH risk assessment and usage. Thank you for investing your valuable time in reading through this article.
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Sodium hypochlorite is a highly toxic chlorine-based substance that can be found in many industrial and home sanitation products. It poses serious hazards to both our health and the environment, as it is corrosive, flammable and dangerous when ingested or inhaled.
Exposure to the hazardous sodium hypochlorite can cause severe irritation of the skin and eyes, breathing troubles, and dangerously jeopardise your long-term health. As a result of its extreme toxicity levels, death by way of sodium hypochlorite is not unheard of in worst-case scenarios.
To keep yourself safe while working with sodium hypochlorite, it is essential to put on protective clothing like disposable gloves, safety goggles and a face mask. Additionally, make sure that the area you're in has sufficient ventilation and stays free from open flames or sparks during your work time.
COSHH assessments are essential for discerning prospective threats linked to substances like sodium hypochlorite and implementing the ideal control procedures that ensure employee safety as well as protect the environment.
In the event of an accident involving sodium hypochlorite, quickly evacuate from the contaminated space and seek medical attention if needed. Make sure all personnel is out of harm's way first, then call for emergency aid.
William Sky is a well-versed safety consultant with extensive years of practice in sodium hypochlorite COSHH risk assessment. His know-how guarantees that organisations can accomplish maximum security and reduce risks to the lowest possible level. With a passion for guaranteeing safe working environments, he is renowned for his attention to detail and meticulousness in all areas of work.
