There are various different types of substances which need to be considered when entering a substance for approval into the eCOSHH database. There are a number of examples below of products which have been entered into the system to provide guidance on the approach to be taken with different products - if in doubt please contact coshh-enquires@strath.ac.uk
There are three options when creating a new agent request: chemical, biological agent or mixture. N.B.: if we view the category of ‘chemical’ as a single entity rather than a ‘pure chemical’ it can be used to keep a record of those substances which although known to be a mixture, do not have any constituent parts listed. See Buffer RPE.
Once set up these records form part of the larger ‘chemical database' and can be viewed and used by anyone across the University. You must ensure as far as you can that the information entered is accurate before sending for approval. Always attach an SDS and if you are using a record that is older than 12months it is worth checking that the SDS attached is the most up to date one.
Adding to the COSHH form
By adding them to the COSHH form it is your responsibility to ensure that the appropriate assessment is carried out and the control measures are in place to deal with the hazards associated with the product you are using. If the substance you are adding is not one that you are familiar with then you must verify that the information within the 'chemical database' record is accurate and up to date.
also see: agent search | agent request | agent approval