scope:

Application

This procedure applies to all situations in which Network Rail employees, including new entrants and temporary staff, who use hazardous substances.

The procedure has been produced in order to regularise all procedures into a national format thus ensuring continuity across the network.

The risk assessments referred to in this procedure are assessment of the risks to the health and safety of individuals during the use of hazardous substances.

The reason for carrying out such risk assessments is to ensure that where employees are exposed to hazards that could damage their health during the course of their employment (whether physical, ergonomic, biological or chemical) the risks of them sustaining injury or becoming affected from the hazard are reduced 'so far as is reasonably practicable'.

This procedure should be implemented in line with the general advice and guidance contained with:-

• The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 Approved Code of Practice.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to:

• Define the process for undertaking Hazardous Substances Risk Assessments in a consistent manner;

• Ensure compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002; and

• Ensure that control measures are put into place as identified by the Risk Assessment.