Storage, waste, contractors and everyday readiness

Everyday COSHH practice relies on sensible storage, accurate labels, defined waste routes, spill equipment and clear arrangements for contractors and temporary staff who may encounter hazardous substances.

Storage rules that prevent harm

• Keep products in suitable, labelled containers.
• Do not store chemicals in food or drink containers.
• Separate incompatible products where local procedure requires it.
• Keep products away from patient-facing stock, food, drink and staff rest areas.
• Restrict access where children, vulnerable patients or the public could reach products.
• Store aerosols, alcohol products and flammables away from heat and ignition sources.
• Report leaks, damaged containers, expired products or overcrowded storage.

Waste and contaminated materials

Waste may present COSHH hazards. Examples include used wipes, contaminated tissues, body-fluid waste, product residues, lens-edging slurry, broken containers, workshop dust, spill materials and other locally defined items. Use the correct waste route and do not put hazardous or contaminated items into ordinary bins unless local procedure permits it.

Contractors and temporary staff

Cleaners, maintenance workers, temporary staff and contractors may bring products on site or work near existing hazards. They must be given information about local risks and controls. Optical staff should also be aware when contractor work generates fumes, dust, access restrictions or storage changes that could affect patients and colleagues.

DSEAR, fire and COSHH overlap

Safe storage is a control measure. If storage makes identification, access control or emergency response harder, report it.