Regulatory Terms
COSHH
‘Control of Substances Hazardous to Health’ (UK, EU)
The law that requires employers to control substances that are hazardous to health. You can prevent or reduce workers exposure to hazardous substances by:
For more information, visit: https://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/basics/index.htm
WELs
‘Workplace Exposure Limits’ (UK)
Guides those responsible for controlling exposure to hazardous substances at work (COSHH).
For more information, visit: https://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/basics/exposurelimits.htm
PELS / OSHA PEL
Permissible Exposure Limits (US)
The maximum amount or concentration of a chemical that a worker may be exposed to under OSHA regulations.
For more information, visit: https://www.osha.gov/dsg/annotated-pels/
ECL / OEL
Exposure Control Limit / Occupational Exposure Limit (EU)
The two legal frameworks that form an integral part of the EU's mechanism for protecting the health of workers in hazardous environments.
For more information, visit: https://echa.europa.eu/oel
WES
Workplace Exposure Standards (Aus)
Workplace exposure standards for airborne contaminants in Australia.
For more information, visit: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/workplace-exposure-standards-airborne-contaminants
IOSH
The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (US)
The Chartered body and largest membership organisation for safety and health professionals.
For more information, visit: https://iosh.com/more/about-us/
OSHA
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (US)
A governing body created to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.
For more information, visit: https://www.osha.gov/aboutosha
OSH Act 1974
Occupational Health and Safety Act (Victoria, Aus)
The act seeks to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees and other people at work. It also aims to ensure that the health and safety of the public is not put at risk by work activities.
For more information, visit: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/occupational-health-and-safety-act-and-regulations
WHS Act 2011
Work Health and Safety Act (NSW, Aus)
A 2011 act that provides a framework to protect the health, safety and welfare of all workers in businesses in New South Wales. Reviews are scheduled once every five years.
For more information, visit: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/legal-obligations/employer-business-obligations/managing-hazards-and-risks