The Cost of COSHH: Budget-Friendly Solutions For Small Businesses

But when it comes to dealing with hazardous substances, even small-scale exposure can lead to big risks. That’s where COSHH comes in.

COSHH, or the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health, is a set of regulations designed to protect employees from harmful substances in the workplace. While it’s essential for maintaining safety, many small businesses worry about the cost of compliance. The good news is that managing COSHH doesn’t have to break the bank.

In this article, we’ll explain what a COSHH assessment covers, the real risks of ignoring it and how small businesses like yours can meet legal obligations affordably.

What Is a COSHH Assessment?

Let’s start with the basics. A COSHH assessment is a formal process that helps you identify hazardous substances in your workplace, understand how people might be exposed, and put controls in place to prevent harm.

If your business uses cleaning products, paint, adhesives, or any substances that carry health risks (and chances are, you do), COSHH applies to you. Many small firms underestimate their responsibilities, often thinking COSHH is only for factories or large-scale operations.

But exposure can happen anywhere. A cleaner using bleach without proper training, or an employee regularly inhaling dust from sanding wood, are both common COSHH risks.

Your assessment should cover:

• What hazardous substances are used or created in your workplace
• How workers might be exposed
• What measures are in place to control exposure
• How you’ll monitor and review these controls
• Emergency planning in case of accidental exposure

Failing to assess and manage these risks can lead to serious health issues, from asthma and skin irritation to long-term conditions like cancer or lung disease. COSHH isn’t just a tick-box exercise; it’s about protecting your people.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Meet COSHH Requirements

Worried about the cost of getting COSHH right? You’re not alone. Many SMEs assume compliance requires investing in costly training schemes. But there are plenty of cost-effective options if you know where to look.

1. Start With What You Already Know

The first step in managing COSHH is knowing what substances you’re using. Look at your stockroom, storerooms or workshop. Gather up product labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) – most suppliers are legally required to provide these for free.

Using these, you can begin identifying hazardous substances and how they’re used. If the exposure is minimal, you may only need basic controls like gloves, ventilation, or clear labelling.

2. Use Online Tools and Templates

While you’ll need to make sure your risk management documents are specific to your business, the templates provided on the HSE website often share industry-specific examples and are a good place to start.

Of course, it’s important to make these documents your own—but starting with a trusted template can save hours of effort.

3. Schedule Group Training Sessions

Training is one of the most effective ways to reduce COSHH risks, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. You can also group training together — arrange a single session for several staff members, cutting down on cost per person. Better still, team up with other nearby businesses to split the cost of in-person training.

4. Store Substances Properly

One of the most overlooked (but low-cost) COSHH controls is safe storage. Locking hazardous substances away from unauthorised access, keeping them in original containers and ensuring good ventilation costs very little but significantly reduces risk.

Regular housekeeping and labelling are simple, budget-friendly practices that make a big difference.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Ignoring COSHH responsibilities might save money in the short term — but the long-term risks are far greater.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has the power to issue improvement notices, prohibition orders and even criminal prosecutions for breaches of COSHH regulations. Penalties can include fines running into thousands of pounds, not to mention the cost of reputational damage, lost productivity, or legal claims.

And if an employee becomes ill due to chemical exposure and it’s found you didn’t do enough to prevent it, the cost could be far more than financial.

How The Health & Safety Dept Can Help

At The Health & Safety Dept, we understand that small businesses don’t have big budgets for compliance, but that shouldn’t mean compromising on safety.

We offer tailored COSHH solutions designed specifically for SMEs. Whether you need a one-off assessment, refresher training for your team, or ongoing support to keep your documentation up to date, we’ll work with you to find an approach that fits your needs — and your budget.

Our advisors are here to:

• Help you identify hazardous substances in your business
• Support you in completing compliant COSHH assessments
• Deliver affordable, accessible training
• Offer advice on low-cost controls and storage solutions
• Provide peace of mind with practical, professional support

Think of us as your health and safety partner. We’re here to simplify compliance and help you protect your people without unnecessary expense.

So, what does a COSHH assessment cover and is it really necessary for small businesses?

Yes — and yes again. But compliance doesn’t have to be complicated or costly.

By taking a practical, informed approach and working with the right support, you can meet your legal obligations, protect your team and avoid costly penalties—all without blowing your budget.

Ready to take control of your COSHH responsibilities? Let The Health & Safety Dept help you implement cost-effective solutions that make a real difference. Get in touch with your local Health & Safety Dept office today.