Risk assessments and COSHH

An approved risk assessment exists for every practical class you undertake.

It identifies and assesses all elements of risk associated with the procedure and describes the control measures in place to reduce the risk of injury.

The risk assessment will form the basis for the safety briefing at the start of each practical class. If you want to view it yourself then contact the relevant practical unit coordinator or the practical supervisor.

In addition, single substance risk assessments or COSHH assessments (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) are used to assess the safe use and storage of individual chemicals/reagents used for each practical class.

• Risk assessment library
• COSHH library

Individual risk assessments

A decision has to be made by a person in authority (eg your supervisor) about who should do the work and in what circumstances should the work be done.

Certain individuals may require additional safety measures to be considered, or be required to observe but not participate in particular practical classes.

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding you should inform the relevant member of academic staff (eg practical unit coordinator or supervisor) immediately so that an individual risk assessment can be undertaken. Please be assured that your confidentiality will be maintained and the outcome of the risk assessment will be handled with discretion.