The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) does not actually cover every substance that you might it expect it to. There are some substances that pose great risk to workers' health and, as such, these aren't required to be monitored and used under the laws laid out by COSHH because these substances have their own separate regulations.
In particular, COSHH does not apply to asbestos, lead, and radioactive substances, which all have their own regulations, as well as substances that are classed as hazardous only because they are:
- used at high pressure,
- used at extreme temperatures,
- have explosive or flammable properties (again, other regulations apply to these risks), or
- biological agents that are outside the employer's control, such as viral infections passed between workers (for more information, please click here to visit the HSE website).
For the vast majority of commercial chemicals the presence of a warning label will indicate whether COSHH is relevant. For example, there is no warning label on ordinary household washing-up liquid, so if it is used at work you do not have to worry about COSHH. However, there is a warning label on bleach, and so COSHH must be applied to its use in the workplace.
Accidents involving non-controlled hazardous substances
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or illness due to a non-controlled hazardous substance, you could still be able to claim compensation. If the substance involved does not fall within the standard COSHH regulations, you may be uncertain about the precise laws regarding its use and whether you'll be able to successfully make a claim. This is where the legal experts at Thompsons Solicitors can help.
The work accident team at Thompsons has all the necessary experience and skill to advise and guide you on your personal injury compensation claim. Taking on board the difficult, often life-changing situation that you may be faced with in the wake of the accident, our solicitors will handle your case with sensitivity and dedication, always putting your best interests first.
With a Thompsons' lawyer on your side, we are confident that the whole process will run as efficiently as possible and, more importantly, a just outcome will be reached for you and your family, gaining you the full amount of compensation you're entitled to.
If you are not sure whether you have a valid workplace accident claim, or would like some advice about making a claim, just give us a call on 0800 0891 331 and our specialist personal injury lawyers will talk things through with you in a free, no-obligation discussion. If you do wish to go forward, we offer a No Win No Fee Solicitors package for your added comfort.