Debunking the Eco-product ‘No COSHH’ Myth: What Care Homes Need to Know

Many believe eco-cleaning products mean “No COSHH is needed”. It sounds easier. It sounds safe. But it’s a dangerous myth - and one that could put your care home staff, residents, and even your care home’s reputation at risk.

Why COSSH Still Matters

COSHH - the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health - is a legal requirement. It protects employees and residents from harm caused by chemicals in the workplace. In care homes, that includes all cleaning products.

Switching to “green” or “natural” products does not mean COSHH can be ignored. Even naturally derived and eco-labelled products can cause:

• Skin and eye irritation from careless handling
  
• Respiratory issues when sprayed without proper training
  
• Slips, trips, and accidents caused by spills or misuse
• 
  Environmental damage if products are disposed of incorrectly 

   

Natural does not automatically mean safe. And eco-friendly or naturally derived does not mean exempt from COSHH.

The Risk of Believing the Myth 

Switching to “green” or “natural” products does not mean COSHH can be ignored. Even naturally derived and eco-labelled products can cause:

• Resident safety - exposing vulnerable people to avoidable harm
  
  
• Staff health - through unmanaged, prolonged or repeated exposure
  
  
• Reputation damage - from failing to meet legal and safety standards
• Legal consequences - as COSHH compliance is mandatory under UK law 

   

The Benefits of Getting COSHH Right 

On the other hand, implementing proper COSHH assessments benefits everyone:

• Safer working environment - protecting staff from unnecessary health risks
• Better care standards - safeguarding residents through higher safety protocols
• Stronger reputation - showing families and regulators your commitment to excellence
• Environmental responsibility - ensuring safe disposal and handling of products, traditional or eco

The bottom line is simple: every cleaning product used in a workplace environment requires COSHH - eco or not. The myth of “No COSHH needed” is misleading and potentially dangerous.

By sticking to COSHH, care homes protect their people, strengthen their standards, and ensure sustainability is done the right way - through science, not spin.