The assessment of risks under COSHH must include which of the following?

The assessment of risks under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations is comprehensive and requires attention to all hazardous substances that may be present in the workplace, not just those that are immediately visible or known. One crucial aspect of COSHH is recognizing that work activities can lead to the creation of new hazardous substances. These might be generated through procedures such as mixing, applying, or processing materials, which can release harmful dusts, vapors, or aerosols.

By identifying the hazardous substances created by work activities, organizations can implement appropriate control measures to mitigate exposure risks. This includes considering factors like the potential for chemical reactions that could produce harmful by-products, or the possibility of exposure to dust or fumes generated during operations.

While assessing known harmful chemicals is important, it is equally crucial to account for new hazards that could arise from routine tasks. This thorough assessment helps ensure a safer work environment for employees by proactively addressing all potential risks associated with substances present due to workplace activities. Therefore, recognizing and managing the hazardous substances created by work activities aligns with the overarching goal of COSHH, which is to protect health and safety in the workplace.