Ammonia Solution COSHH Data Sheet UK
A HSE-format UK COSHH data sheet reference for Ammonia Solution (also known as Ammonia, Cloudy Ammonia, Household Ammonia). Covers workplace exposure limits from HSE EH40/2005, GHS hazard classification, control measures, PPE, storage, spillage and emergency procedures. Use the data here to complete your own COSHH assessment, or generate a workplace-specific PDF in 5 minutes.
GHS Hazard Classification
Corrosive (Skin Corr. 1B, H314), Serious Eye Damage (H318), Acute Toxicity by inhalation, Sensitiser at certain concentrations.
Health Effects
Strong respiratory irritant, released during hair bleaching, oxidative dyeing, and perming. Can cause irritation of skin, eyes, and respiratory system, with sensitisation possible after repeated contact.
Routes of Exposure
- Inhalation (strong odour)
- Skin contact
- Eye contact
Workplace exposure to Ammonia Solution is regulated under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. Employers must reduce occupational exposure to as low as reasonably practicable, following the HSE hierarchy of control.
Recommended Control Measures
Applied in the HSE hierarchy of control order: eliminate, substitute, engineering, administrative, PPE.
- Ensure good ventilation, especially during mixing/application
- Avoid mixing with bleach-based or chlorine-based products
- Limit duration of close-proximity exposure during application
- Use local exhaust ventilation or open windows
- Consider lower-ammonia or ammonia-free alternatives
Recommended PPE
- Nitrile gloves
- Adequate ventilation as primary control
- FFP-rated mask for high-frequency/high-volume mixing
Emergency Procedures
Data Sources
Fisher Scientific Ammonia SDS; HighSpeedTraining COSHH for Hairdressing; PMC Scoping Review
Frequently asked questions
Is a COSHH assessment required for Ammonia Solution?
Yes. Any UK employer whose staff work with Ammonia Solution must hold a written COSHH assessment under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, Regulation 6. The assessment must be reviewed at least annually and immediately if circumstances change. You can generate one free (watermarked) using our tool.
What is the Workplace Exposure Limit for Ammonia Solution?
Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) for Ammonia Solution are published by HSE in EH40/2005. Values come as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) and 15-minute short-term exposure limit (STEL). Where a formal WEL has not been set for this substance, we mark the field as "Not established" and rely on hazard-based controls following the hierarchy of control.
What PPE is needed for Ammonia Solution?
The recommended PPE typically includes: Nitrile gloves; Adequate ventilation as primary control; FFP-rated mask for high-frequency/high-volume mixing. Actual PPE requirements depend on how Ammonia Solution is used in your specific workplace, how often, and existing engineering controls. Your COSHH assessment should specify PPE only after engineering and administrative controls have been considered.
Do I need health surveillance for workers using Ammonia Solution?
Health surveillance under COSHH 2002 Regulation 10 is required for substances that are respiratory sensitisers, skin sensitisers, or carcinogens where exposure is significant. If Ammonia Solution appears on the HSE health surveillance list for your industry, workers with regular exposure should have baseline and annual monitoring.
Generate a workplace-specific COSHH assessment for Ammonia Solution
Answer 6 quick questions about your workplace and download a 7-page HSE-format PDF. First one is free (watermarked). Paid bundles from £29 for 10 clean PDFs.
Related COSHH data sheets
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References
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (SI 2002/2677), UK legislation.gov.uk
- HSE EH40/2005 Workplace Exposure Limits, Health and Safety Executive
- COSHH basics: What you need to know, HSE
- COSHH essentials, control guidance for employers, HSE
- L5, Approved Code of Practice and guidance, HSE