COSHH: chemical storage & mixing Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Disinfectant dilution and contact-time errors — Use dosing pumps or Class-A cylinders; label make-up time/strength/expiry; display contact times at eye level; replace daily—no topping up; verify with test strips; record lot numbers and checks in a visible log for audit readiness.
• Damaged deliveries and decant setup errors — Inspect boxes on receipt; refuse leaks/swollen caps; open upright with PPE on a tray; log batch/expiry and move stock straight to segregated storage; replace missing safety seals and update inventory before any decant starts; report defects.
• Incompatible chemical mixing — Post a “do-not-mix” chart (e.g., bleach with acids/ammonia/chlorine); colour-code tools for oxidisers vs reducers; keep separate trolleys; never reuse decant cups across families; double-check labels aloud before combining any components.
• Access control to chemical stores — Lock stores; restrict keys to trained staff; keep CCTV in corridors (not treatment rooms); count controlled items daily; forbid client/child entry; post PPE and emergency contacts on the inside of the door for point-of-use prompts.
• Inhalation exposure during mixing (dust/vapour) — Use low-dust powders and gentle decant; mix under local extraction with lids on bowls; cap bottles between passes; offer FFP2/3 on request; wet-wipe benches to avoid re-entrainment; change extraction filters to the posted schedule.