Weedkiller & Glyphosate COSHH assessment
Weedkillers such as glyphosate are used in groundcare, landscaping and site clearance. They must be stored, mixed and applied to the product label and COSHH, with controls to avoid skin contact, drift and environmental harm.
The hazards
- Skin and eye irritation from concentrate
- Inhalation of spray mist during application
- Environmental harm if it reaches drains or watercourses
- Risk of over-application if not measured correctly
Who is at risk
Exposure routes
- Skin contact
- Eye contact
- Inhalation of spray mist
- Accidental ingestion
Health effects
- Skin and eye irritation
- Nausea if ingested
- Respiratory irritation from mist
Control measures (hierarchy of control)
Controls should be applied in order — eliminate or substitute first, then engineering controls, then PPE as the last line.
- Only trained operators apply pesticides (PA1/PA6 certificated)
- Measure and mix to the product label - never over-dose
- Apply in low wind to avoid drift; keep away from drains and water
- Follow the label and safety data sheet for each product
- Store securely in a bunded, signed store away from other materials
PPE & RPE
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Eye protection / face shield
- Coveralls
- Boots; RPE for enclosed spraying
First aid
- Skin: wash off with plenty of water
- Eyes: irrigate for at least 15 minutes and seek medical advice
- Ingestion: do not induce vomiting; seek urgent medical help with the product SDS
Workplace exposure limit (WEL)
Relevant legislation & guidance
Weedkiller & Glyphosate COSHH FAQs
Yes - weedkillers are hazardous substances, so mixing and applying them needs a COSHH assessment alongside following the product label, which is itself a legal requirement for approved pesticides.
Anyone applying professional pesticides should hold the relevant certificate of competence (such as PA1 and PA6) and follow the label, storage and drift controls in the assessment.
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