Article: Pollution control - hazardous substances Article Body Every year, exposure to hazardous substances at work effects the health of many thousands of people. Work-related effects can include lung disease, skin irritation, dermatitis or skin cancer, occupational asthma, toxic fumes, occupational cancer and so on. The high costs of ill health arise from loss of earnings, loss of productivity, prosecution and civil action, among others. The council work with the Health and Safety Executive to enforce legislation and provide advice relating to hazardous substances, which can be seen on the link to COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations 2002. The COSHH regulations cover the following: Substances labelled as 'very toxic', 'toxic', 'harmful', 'corrosive', or 'irritant'. Substances with maximum exposure limits or occupational exposure standards. Refer to Workplace Exposure Limits Substantial quantities of dust. Harmful micro-organisms including legionella. Any other substance that creates a comparable health hazard This would, for example, include cleaning chemicals, paints, photocopier toner, adhesives, wood dust, vehicle exhaust gasses and metal fumes. The COSHH regulations apply to all workplaces, but the effort involved in complying with them will depend upon the substances and process in use. In their fullest form the regulations require employers and the self-employed to do the following: Make a written assessment of the health risks of substances used at work. Implement appropriate control measures for those risks Inform anyone who might be at risk from substances at work. Carry out monitoring and health surveillance where necessary You can contact the council for information relating to pollution control by telephoning: 01226 772468