The new Regulations came into force on October 1st 1990 and laid down the requirements for the control of hazardous substances in a place of work.

The regulations set out the measures that employers and employees have to take in order to avoid risk.

requirements include:

- Assessment of risk

- Measures to prevent or control risk

- Ensure use of controls

- Monitor exposure limits

- Inform and train employees

examples of substances in dentistry which should be included in the practice COSHH programme:

- Mercury

- Etch solutions

- Spray from patient’s mouth during use of airotor or ultra-sonic device

- Powders – Impression, cement, etc.

- Disinfectant solutions

- Medicaments

- All cleaning materials

Further information from:

- Local Health and Safety Executive

- Environmental Health Officer at Local Authority

- HMSO