Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser) COSHH Data Sheet UK
A HSE-format UK COSHH data sheet reference for Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser) (also known as Ethanol, Ethyl Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol). 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
Flammable Liquid Cat 2 (H225), Eye Irritant (H319 at high concentration).
Health Effects
Alcohol-based sanitiser commonly used in UK cleaning post-2020. Low direct health hazard at typical use concentration (60-90%). Main risks are flammability, drying/defatting of skin with heavy use, and eye irritation from splashes.
Routes of Exposure
- Inhalation of vapour
- Skin contact
- Eye contact
Workplace exposure to Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser) 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.
- Keep away from ignition sources - highly flammable
- Use in ventilated area for large-quantity application
- Apply moisturiser to prevent occupational hand dermatitis
Recommended PPE
- Ventilation as primary control
- Gloves only for heavy occupational use
Emergency Procedures
Data Sources
EH40/2005 Table 1 (WEL: 1000 ppm TWA); post-pandemic sanitiser guidance; manufacturer SDS
Frequently asked questions
Is a COSHH assessment required for Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser)?
Yes. Any UK employer whose staff work with Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser) 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 Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser)?
Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) for Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser) 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 Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser)?
The recommended PPE typically includes: Ventilation as primary control; Gloves only for heavy occupational use. Actual PPE requirements depend on how Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser) 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 Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser)?
Health surveillance under COSHH 2002 Regulation 10 is required for substances that are respiratory sensitisers, skin sensitisers, or carcinogens where exposure is significant. If Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser) 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 Ethanol (Surface Sanitiser)
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