COSHH Compliance — Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
As a professional domestic cleaning business, One Less Chore complies with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). This page outlines our risk assessment approach and safety measures for the chemicals we use in clients’ homes.
1. Hazardous Substances We Use
Our cleaning operations may involve the following hazardous substances:
- Bleach (sodium hypochlorite solution): Used as a disinfectant and stain remover. Irritant to skin and eyes; dangerous if mixed with acids.
- Descaling agents (acidic formulations): Used for limescale removal in bathrooms and kitchens. Corrosive; must not be mixed with bleach.
- Concentrated multi-surface disinfectants (quaternary ammonium compounds): Used for sanitising high-touch surfaces. Skin and respiratory irritant.
- Glass and mirror cleaners (alcohol-based): Flammable; vapour may irritate respiratory system.
- Oven cleaning solutions (alkaline degreasers): Corrosive; requires rubber gloves and eye protection.
- Microfibre and general-purpose detergents: Low hazard but may cause skin dryness with prolonged exposure.
2. Risk Assessment and Control Measures
| Substance | Hazard | Control Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Bleach | Skin/eye irritation; toxic gas if mixed with acids | Rubber gloves; never mix with other chemicals; use in ventilated areas; store in labelled container away from acids |
| Descalers | Corrosive burns; toxic gas if mixed with bleach | Rubber gloves; protective apron; rinse surfaces thoroughly; store separately from bleach |
| Disinfectants | Skin and respiratory irritation | Rubber gloves; ensure adequate ventilation; avoid spraying near clients or pets |
| Glass cleaners | Flammable; vapour inhalation | Use away from ignition sources; ventilate area; wear gloves if prolonged use |
| Oven cleaners | Corrosive burns; respiratory irritation | Rubber gloves; eye protection (goggles); long-sleeved clothing; ventilate room |
3. Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
We maintain digital copies of Safety Data Sheets for every chemical product we use. These are obtained directly from the manufacturer and are available for inspection upon request by clients or regulatory authorities.
4. Chemical Storage and Transport
- All chemicals are stored in their original, labelled containers with child-resistant caps.
- Incompatible chemicals (e.g., bleach and acids) are stored in separate compartments in our vehicle.
- Chemicals are transported in a sealed, ventilated container in the van.
- Chemicals are never left unattended in a client’s home outside of use.
- Spill kit (absorbent pads, gloves, disposal bags) is carried in the van at all times.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Minimum PPE worn during all cleaning operations:
- Rubber / nitrile gloves: Worn at all times when handling cleaning chemicals.
- Protective apron: Worn during deep cleaning and when using corrosive products.
- Safety goggles: Worn when using oven cleaners or other splash-risk chemicals.
- Closed-toe, non-slip footwear: Worn at all times.
6. Training and Review
Ashley Pantry (Owner-Operator) is responsible for COSHH compliance. Risk assessments are reviewed annually or when new products are introduced. This policy was last reviewed on 30 June 2026.