RA-HS37 Work Hazardous Substances
| File Reference : | RA-HS37 Work hazardous substances |
This example risk assessment has been prepared using the
F-HS20 General Risk Assessment form template - a purpose-built template designed to focus entirely on what matters: identifying hazards, rating risk and recording controls, without any unnecessary fields getting in the way.
The file is supplied in fully editable MS Word format and can be easily customised and saved to Google Docs format if required. The document uses pre-defined style formatting throughout with styles to match the risk-ratings which are input using select boxes pre-populated with all possible risk ratings. All text is in Calibri font for improved readability.
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Working with Hazardous Substances Risk Assessment
This fully completed working with hazardous substances risk assessment example has been prepared by a qualified health and safety professional. It covers a typical range of hazards, risks and associated control measures for the use, storage and disposal of hazardous substances in specialist work environments and can be used as a starting point when developing your own risk assessment documentation.
What Does This Hazardous Substances Risk Assessment Cover?
This risk assessment identifies the key hazards associated with working with hazardous substances including;
- Acute chemical poisoning — accidental ingestion, skin absorption or inhalation of acutely toxic substances causing rapid onset of poisoning, organ damage or death
- Chronic occupational ill health — repeated low-level exposure to carcinogens, sensitisers and reproductive toxins (CMR substances) causing cancer, asthma and reproductive effects
- Reactive chemical incidents — mixing of incompatible chemicals causing violent reaction, heat generation, fire, explosion or toxic gas release
- Environmental contamination — accidental release of hazardous substances to drains, watercourses or land causing ecological damage
Each hazard includes an inherent risk rating ranging from Moderate to Substantial, and a comprehensive listing of applicable control measures covering areas such as;
- Full PPE (chemical-resistant coverall, gloves, RPE) for all high-hazard substance handling
- Emergency shower and eye wash where corrosive or toxic liquids are handled
- CMR substances identified; substitution considered; exposures below relevant Work Exposure Limits (WELs)
- Airborne monitoring and health surveillance for carcinogen and sensitiser exposures
- Chemical compatibility matrix; documented mixing procedures; staff trained in emergency response
- Secondary containment (bunding) at 110% capacity; drain covers during work near surface water drainage
A residual risk rating is then assigned to each hazard, demonstrating how effective risk management reduces overall risk to a tolerable level.
A Professional, Easy-to-Use Risk Assessment Template
This document uses colour-coded header styles matched to risk ratings, making it quick to read and easy to communicate during toolbox talks and worker training. A built-in risk rating matrix supports consistent evaluation of likelihood and consequence, and hazard pictograms using internationally recognised ISO warning symbols are included alongside relevant hazard entries — improving clarity and helping to highlight risks and mandatory controls.
The result is a completed risk assessment that looks professional, reads clearly, and demonstrates a structured and effective approach to risk management.
Who Is This Risk Assessment Template Suitable For?
This hazardous substances risk assessment template is suitable for health and safety advisers, laboratory managers, process engineers and any employer with a duty to assess risks associated with hazardous substances under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002. It can be implemented as a standalone document or as part of a broader occupational health and safety management system aligned with ISO 45001.
Note: This example risk assessment is supplied for use as guidance only and should be reviewed and completed by a competent person.