What is the primary focus of COSHH regulations in dental hygiene?

COSHH, which stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health, is a set of regulations aimed at protecting workers from health risks associated with hazardous substances. In dental hygiene, the primary focus of COSHH regulations is on chemical safety. This involves assessing and managing the risks posed by various substances that dental professionals may encounter in their practice, including disinfectants, cleaning agents, and materials used in dental procedures.

By implementing COSHH protocols, dental practices can ensure that staff are trained to handle these chemicals safely, use the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and follow procedures for the safe storage, usage, and disposal of hazardous substances. This focus on chemical safety is crucial not only for the health of dental practitioners but also for the protection of patients and the environment.

While infection control, medicinal use, and waste management are also important aspects of dental hygiene and practice, they fall under different regulatory frameworks or specific practices that complement the overarching goal of COSHH to ensure safety related to hazardous substances.