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General information only. This site does not provide legal advice. Always consult a qualified solicitor.
In-depth guide · Last reviewed June 2026

Chemical exposure at work: claims and compensation in the UK

What types of chemical exposure happen at work?

Skin contact causing dermatitis/burns; inhalation causing asthma, poisoning, lung disease; eye contact

What does COSHH 2002 require?

Hierarchy: eliminate; substitute; engineering controls; admin controls; PPE; health surveillance

What if no COSHH risk assessment was carried out?

Automatic breach — employer cannot rely on lack of knowledge

What injuries and conditions result?

How is a chemical exposure claim valued?

Depends on condition — link to /burns-at-work-claim, /occupational-asthma-claims, /contact-dermatitis-work-claim [new]

Date of knowledge for long-latency conditions

What if PPE was not provided?

Free eligibility check · 60 seconds

Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.

Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.

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Where did the accident happen?

Pick the setting closest to your situation.

Sources

  1. : Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)
  2. PPE Regs 1992/2022
  3. HSWA 1974
  4. Limitation Act 1980

This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.