Advice Centre

Understanding COSHH (The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations)

COSHH requires employers to manage and control exposure to hazardous substances to prevent ill health. Compliance involves:

1. Risk Assessment: Evaluating health risks from hazardous substances created by work activities.
2. Preventive Measures: Determining necessary precautions to prevent or adequately control exposure.

Employers must ensure a safe working environment by adhering to these essential guidelines.

Understanding CIRIA: (Construction Industry Research and Information Association).

CIRIA is a neutral, independent, non-profit organisation that connects organisations with shared interests to improve the construction industry through collaborative activities.

Key Guidance from Document C736

Document C736 offers essential guidance for owners and operators of industrial and commercial facilities that store potentially hazardous substances. It includes:

• Hazard Identification: Methods to identify environmental hazards.
• Risk Assessment: Techniques to assess risks associated with hazardous substance storage.
• Risk Mitigation: Strategies to mitigate potential consequences of storage facility failures or combustion of contents.

The document introduces a three-tier risk assessment methodology with recommendations for different construction classes.

Understanding HSE (Health & Safety Executive).

HSE is dedicated to preventing workplace deaths, injuries, and illnesses through various methods to influence change and manage risks. These methods include:

• Advice and Guidance: Providing essential information and support.
• Awareness and Engagement: Raising awareness and influencing safety practices in workplaces.
• Permissioning and Licensing: Regulating major hazard industries.
• Inspections and Investigations: Conducting targeted inspections and investigations.
• Enforcement: Taking action to prevent harm and hold violators accountable.

Essential HSE guidance documents include; HSG71, HSG140 and HSG51.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer work environment and compliance with safety regulations.

The RISC Authority and Fire Protection Association offer practical guidance on fire hazards and the recommended control procedures to put in place when storing, charging or handling batteries in a commercial or industrial setting.

Understanding Environmental Risk Insurance 

The International Underwriting Association has created an extensive guide that highlights the importance of environmental insurance and helps assess the various available options.