Expert answer · reviewed 20 August 2026
How do you manage COSHH assessments digitally?
Short answerDigital COSHH management starts with one controlled substance register, links each substance to its current safety data sheet and workplace assessment, then records exposure routes, controls, PPE, storage, emergency measures, health surveillance and review dates.
The SDS is not the assessment
A safety data sheet describes the supplied substance. The COSHH assessment must consider how your organisation stores, handles, mixes and uses it, who may be exposed and whether the controls work in practice.
Keep the register operational
Assign ownership, flag missing or superseded SDS files, schedule review and link substances to sites, activities, workers, incidents and corrective actions.
Practical checklist
- Maintain one approved substance inventory
- Retain current SDS versions without deleting history
- Assess workplace exposure and the hierarchy of control
- Communicate controls and verify implementation