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Formaldehyde: Health and Safety

Answer

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has no current plans to produce sector specific guidance on formaldehyde in NHS workplaces. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (2002) (COSHH) (as amended) is a robust and well-established regulatory framework in place to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace, including formaldehyde. The accompanying Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and guidance to these regulations gives practical advice on how to comply with the law.

Under COSHH, it is the responsibility of each NHS employer to assess the risk from their work activities involving formaldehyde and to ensure that the exposure of their employees to this hazardous substance is either prevented, or where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled. Where it is not reasonably practicable, it is for the NHS employer to put in place and maintain the protection measures that adequately control the risk from exposure in accordance with the requirements of COSHH. Where controls are in place employers have a duty to ensure they are maintained so that they remain effective and protect workers.

Where HSE receives intelligence suggesting employers are not controlling risks, HSE responds in a proportionate way, which may include inspections or enforcement action if employers are not complying with legal requirements.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

HL13775

Session

2024-26

Subjects

Health and safety Formaldehyde

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk