| File Reference : | COSHH Assessment Masonry Cleaner |
| Date File Updated | 06-07-2026 |
| File Format | MS Word |
| No. of files | 1 |
| Category | COSHH Assessments | Tags: ISO 45001 |
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This example covers hydrochloric acid masonry cleaners. Corrosive to skin, eyes and airways, with application, storage and PPE controls for safe use.
This example COSHH risk assessment has been prepared using the
F-HS5 COSHH Assessment form template - a purpose-built template designed to focus entirely on what matters: identifying the hazards of each substance, recording the controls and PPE that manage them, and confirming exposure is adequately controlled, without any unnecessary fields getting in the way.
The file is supplied in fully editable MS Word format and can be saved to Google Docs if required, with pre-defined styles throughout to match the risk ratings.
The following document labelling is included in the footer:
- Form number and title
- Information-classification
- Version
- Page number / total pages
Further guidance on managing hazardous substances:
Download this form template with your company name and logo already added!
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This file is included in the alphaZ subscription.
COSHH Assessment - Acid-Based Masonry Cleaner (Hydrochloric Acid)
This pre-completed COSHH assessment covers acid-based masonry cleaners - aqueous hydrochloric acid solutions (typically 5–10% HCl) used externally to remove cement, mortar staining, efflorescence and lime bloom from brick, block, paving, stone and concrete. The product causes severe burns on contact and its fumes can corrode the airways, so it demands careful handling from start to finish.
What Does This COSHH Assessment Cover?
The assessment is fully completed and ready to use, covering all sections required for a complete hazardous substance risk assessment:
- Substance identification - aqueous hydrochloric acid solution (CAS 7647-01-0) with minor wetting agents, SDS reference and physical state
- Health effects and first aid - severe burns to skin, eyes and the digestive tract (may be fatal if swallowed), corrosive vapour effects on the airways including possible delayed respiratory injury, with specific first aid for each route
- Incompatible materials - never mixed with bleach, alkalis or other chemicals; contact with metals may produce hydrogen gas
- Workplace exposure limits - hydrogen chloride TWA 1 ppm (2 mg/m³) and STEL 5 ppm (8 mg/m³), with brush or low-pressure application to avoid mist
- CLP hazard classification - Corrosive pictogram
- PPE requirements - splash goggles or face shield (EN166), acid-resistant gloves to EN374, acid-resistant apron or coveralls and boots, with an acid gas respirator where ventilation is poor
- Emergency procedures - spillage containment away from drains, fire precautions and hazardous waste disposal via a licensed contractor
Who Is This COSHH Assessment For?
This assessment is suitable for any workplace where acid masonry cleaner is used, including:
- Brickwork and masonry cleaning contractors
- Building restoration and conservation work
- Hard landscaping and paving contractors
- General building contractors removing mortar staining
Working From the Safety Data Sheet
The assessment reflects the hazards and controls found in typical manufacturer safety data sheets for these cleaners. Acid strength varies by product, so check the details against the SDS for the exact product in use and record your own storage locations, users and site-specific controls.
COSHH Compliance
This document provides ready-to-use evidence of COSHH compliance and supports occupational health and safety management. The assessment is based on the F-HS5 COSHH Assessment template, is fully editable in Microsoft Word, and can be customised with your company details, site-specific information and review dates.
