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working with chemicals

Many workers, including hairdressers, cleaners, health care staff are regularly dealing with potentially harmful chemicals in the course of their working day. Make sure you understand the risks, and the action you and your employer need to take to protect your health.

  • How might I be exposed to chemicals at work?  more...
  • What harm can chemicals do me?  more...
  • How can I tell if the chemicals I work with are dangerous?  more...
  • My employer gives us gloves. Isn't that enough?  more...
  • I work as a painter and decorator. What harm can paints and varnishes do me?  more...
  • I am a hairdresser. Can hair dyes and perming lotions be harmful?  more...
  • What happens if I get dermatitis?  more...
  • What kind of personal protective equipment should my employer give me?  more...
  • Who should I speak to if I have a health and safety problem at work?  more...
  • Do I have to wear the protective clothing my employer gives me?  more...

further information

The Health and Safety Executive website has information, case studies and news on health and safety issues and law relevant to the use, handling, transport and storage of chemicals. hse.gov.uk/chemicals

Hazardous substances, a Unison guide for Health and Safety Reps, available from UNISON, tel: 0845 355 0845, or in the resources section of the Unison website. unison.org.uk/resources

Chemical hazards handbook, Becky Allen (1999), available from the London Hazards Centre, tel: 020 7794 5999, or to read online in the books section of the LHC website. lhc.org.uk