Which of the following is an example of a hazardous substance under COSHH?

• A. Water
• B. Fumes created by Soldering, Brazing and chemical reactions
• C. Wood dust
• D. Sand

Answer: (B)

Under COSHH, anything that can harm health when it is produced or used in the workplace needs to be controlled. Fumes released during processes like soldering, brazing and chemical reactions are a clear hazardous substance because they are inhalable vapours or aerosols that can irritate or damage the respiratory system and may lead to longer-term health problems. They require controls such as ventilation, extraction, and appropriate PPE to prevent exposure.

Water and sand aren’t health hazards in normal handling, so they don’t illustrate this COSHH category. Wood dust can pose inhalation risks, but the fumes produced by soldering, brazing and chemical reactions provide a more straightforward example of a hazardous substance under COSHH.