Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm Solution) COSHH Data Sheet UK
A HSE-format UK COSHH data sheet reference for Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm Solution) (also known as Perm Solution, Perming Lotion, Curl Solution). 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
Skin Irritant (Skin Irrit. 2, H315), Eye Irritant (Eye Irrit. 2, H319), Skin Sensitiser (Skin Sens. 1, H317), Acute Toxicity Cat 4 (H302).
Health Effects
Strong odour causing respiratory irritation in poorly ventilated salons. Repeated skin contact can lead to allergic contact dermatitis. Recognised occupational skin hazard for hairdressers.
Routes of Exposure
- Skin contact
- Inhalation of vapour
- Eye contact
Workplace exposure to Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm 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 during application and processing
- Wear gloves throughout the process
- Consider cysteamine-based alternatives which are less sensitising
- Rinse thoroughly after processing time
Recommended PPE
- Nitrile gloves (mandatory)
- Apron for splash protection
Emergency Procedures
Data Sources
HSE hairdressing guidance; DermNet NZ; UK salon SDS
Frequently asked questions
Is a COSHH assessment required for Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm Solution)?
Yes. Any UK employer whose staff work with Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm 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 Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm Solution)?
Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) for Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm 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 Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm Solution)?
The recommended PPE typically includes: Nitrile gloves (mandatory); Apron for splash protection. Actual PPE requirements depend on how Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm 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 Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm 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 Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm 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 Ammonium Thioglycolate (Perm 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.
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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