The law on dangerous substances at work in the UK is mainly governed by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002. These regulations require employers to identify, assess, and control risks linked to hazardous substances to protect workers’ health and safety.
Understanding the Legal Duties Around Hazardous Substances
If you work in construction, manufacturing, cleaning, healthcare, or agriculture, chances are you’re exposed to substances that can be harmful. We’re talking about chemicals, dust, fumes, and even biological agents like bacteria and viruses.
In the UK, the main legislation that protects workers from dangerous substances is the COSHH Regulations. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), employers must:
- Identify all harmful substances used or produced in the workplace.
- Assess the risk of exposure.
- Implement measures to prevent or control exposure.
- Ensure employees are properly trained and equipped.
- Monitor exposure and conduct health surveillance where necessary.
Failing to follow COSHH can lead to serious health consequences, such as respiratory issues, skin irritation, cancer, or long-term illness. It can also result in legal action and hefty compensation claims.
What Are Considered Dangerous Substances at Work?
The term “dangerous substances” covers a wide range of materials that could cause harm. These include:
- Toxic chemicals like cleaning agents, solvents, and pesticides.
- Dust and fumes from welding, grinding or sanding.
- Asbestos (especially in older buildings).
- Biological agents, such as viruses or bacteria in healthcare settings.
- Flammable liquids or gases that can cause fires or explosions.
Even everyday products like paint, bleach, and detergents can be harmful if not used correctly.
According to the HSE, about 12,000 UK deaths a year are linked to occupational exposure to harmful substances – especially in industries with poor ventilation or inadequate safety protocols.
What Should Employers Be Doing?
By law, employers must follow the COSHH regulations. Here’s a breakdown of their duties:
- Risk Assessments – Every workplace must carry out a detailed COSHH risk assessment. It should list every hazardous substance and explain how staff are protected.
- Safe Working Procedures – Employers need to introduce safer processes, such as enclosed systems or improved ventilation, to minimise exposure.
- Provide PPE – Personal protective equipment (PPE), like gloves, masks, goggles, or respirators, must be available and maintained properly.
- Training – Workers should be trained on how to handle hazardous substances, how to store them, and what to do in an emergency.
- Health Surveillance – If there’s a risk of illness, employers must carry out regular health checks.
If your employer isn’t doing this, they may be negligent under UK health and safety law, and you could be entitled to compensation.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The amount of compensation you can claim for exposure to dangerous substances at work depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your illness or injury
- Loss of earnings (past and future)
- Medical expenses
- Impact on quality of life
- Psychological stress
Below are some general estimates (figures based on recent UK guidelines):
| Injury Type | Compensation Range |
|---|---|
| Mild breathing issues from chemical exposure | £2,500 – £5,000 |
| Long-term respiratory illness (e.g. asthma) | £10,000 – £29,000 |
| Severe lung disease (e.g. COPD, cancer) | £65,000 – £120,000+ |
| Skin conditions like dermatitis or burns | £1,000 – £18,000 |
? Note: These are just estimates. Your actual claim value could be higher depending on your unique situation.
National Claims can connect you with experienced solicitors who will assess your case and help you understand what you’re entitled to – often on a No Win, No Fee basis.
People Also Ask
1. Can I claim for chemical exposure at work?
Yes. If you were exposed to dangerous substances due to your employer’s negligence and it caused you harm, you may be entitled to compensation. The COSHH regulations support your right to work in a safe environment.
2. What are employers legally required to do under COSHH?
Employers must identify hazardous substances, carry out risk assessments, train staff, provide PPE, and ensure regular health monitoring. If they fail in these duties, they can be held liable.
3. How do I prove my illness was caused by workplace exposure?
Evidence could include:
- Medical records linking your condition to exposure
- Workplace risk assessments
- Witness statements
- Past complaints or incidents involving the same substance
Specialist solicitors, such as those available via National Claims, can help you gather this evidence.
4. Is there a time limit for making a claim?
Yes. You usually have 3 years from the date of the injury or from when you first became aware of the condition. This is known as the “date of knowledge.”
5. Do I need to pay upfront to make a claim?
Most work-related exposure claims are handled on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you only pay if your claim is successful.
Common Industries Where Exposure Happens
Dangerous substances can exist in many work environments. The most affected industries include:
- Construction – exposure to asbestos, cement dust, paint fumes
- Manufacturing – use of solvents, adhesives, and chemicals
- Healthcare – biological risks, disinfectants, drugs
- Cleaning – harsh cleaning agents and bleach
- Agriculture – pesticides, fertilisers, diesel fumes
If your employer hasn’t taken proper steps to protect you, this could be a breach of their legal duty of care.
What If My Employer Denies Responsibility?
It’s not uncommon for employers to deny wrongdoing. They might say your condition was caused by something else or argue that you didn’t follow safety rules.
This is why it’s crucial to get expert legal advice. A solicitor experienced in COSHH claims will help prove your case using expert reports, workplace records, and medical assessments.
National Claims can put you in touch with trusted UK solicitors who specialise in work injury and hazardous exposure cases.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you believe you’ve suffered due to exposure to dangerous substances at work, don’t suffer in silence.
You have legal rights, and with the help of a specialist solicitor, you can claim the compensation you deserve. Whether your case involves respiratory problems, skin damage, or even long-term illnesses like cancer, your employer could be held accountable.
? National Claims is here to help. We’ll connect you with an experienced solicitor who understands COSHH claims and will support you every step of the way – from paperwork to payout.
✅ Ready to Make a Claim?
Start your journey today. Whether you’re unsure if you have a case or you want to know how much your claim could be worth, Contact National Claims for a free consultation.
? Call now or complete our quick online form. No Win, No Fee. 100% Confidential.
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