1. Policy Statement
Bash EcoCleaners Service Ltd is committed to protecting the health and safety of our employees, clients, and the public from exposure to hazardous substances used in our cleaning operations. This policy sets out how we comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).
2. Scope
This policy covers all substances that may be hazardous to health, including:
- Cleaning chemicals and detergents
- Disinfectants and sanitisers
- Polishes, waxes, and sealants
- Specialist cleaning solvents
- Biological agents (e.g., bacteria, viruses encountered during cleaning)
- Dust and fumes generated during cleaning processes
3. COSHH Assessments
Before any hazardous substance is used, a COSHH assessment is carried out. This assessment identifies:
- The hazardous substances present and their potential health effects
- Who may be exposed and how (inhalation, skin contact, ingestion, eye contact)
- The control measures required to prevent or minimise exposure
- What to do in the event of an emergency (spill, splash, accidental ingestion)
COSHH assessments are reviewed annually or when a new substance is introduced, a process changes, or an incident occurs.
4. Control Measures
We implement the following hierarchy of control measures:
- Elimination: Where possible, we eliminate the use of hazardous substances by selecting eco-friendly, non-toxic alternatives
- Substitution: We replace more hazardous products with less hazardous alternatives wherever practicable
- Engineering controls: We use enclosed systems, dilution equipment, and ventilation to reduce exposure
- Procedural controls: We implement safe working procedures, limit exposure time, and restrict access during chemical use
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Where residual risk remains, we provide appropriate PPE including gloves, eye protection, aprons, and respiratory protection as required
5. Safety Data Sheets
We maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for every chemical product used. These are:
- Kept on file at the head office and accessible to all cleaning teams
- Available at each client site where our products are stored or used
- Provided to clients on request
- Updated whenever a new product is introduced or an existing SDS is revised by the manufacturer
6. Storage & Handling
- All chemicals are stored securely in their original, labelled containers
- Chemicals are never transferred to unlabelled containers
- Incompatible chemicals are stored separately
- Storage areas are ventilated, secure, and clearly marked
- Chemicals are kept away from food preparation areas, drinking water sources, and areas accessible to vulnerable people
- Spill kits are available at all storage locations
7. Training
All cleaning operatives receive COSHH training that covers:
- Understanding product labels and hazard symbols
- Correct dilution ratios and application methods
- Proper use and maintenance of PPE
- Emergency procedures for spills, splashes, and accidental exposure
- Correct storage and disposal of chemicals
- How to access Safety Data Sheets and COSHH assessments
Refresher training is provided annually and whenever new products are introduced.
8. Incident Reporting
Any incident involving hazardous substances — including spills, exposure, or adverse health effects — must be reported immediately to the supervisor and recorded in the incident log. Serious incidents are reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013).
9. Health Surveillance
Where COSHH assessments identify a risk of health effects from substance exposure, we implement appropriate health surveillance in accordance with HSE guidance. This may include skin checks, respiratory monitoring, or occupational health referrals.
10. Review
This policy is reviewed annually. COSHH assessments are reviewed whenever there is a change in products, processes, or legislation.
Last updated: April 2026