Isopropyl Alcohol COSHH Data Sheet UK
A HSE-format UK COSHH data sheet reference for Isopropyl Alcohol (also known as IPA, Rubbing Alcohol, Surgical Spirit). 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
Highly Flammable Liquid and Vapour (Flam. Liq. 2, H225), Serious Eye Irritation (H319), May cause drowsiness/dizziness (H336).
Health Effects
Eye irritation at relatively low airborne concentration. CNS depression symptoms (headache, dizziness, drowsiness) at higher vapour concentrations. Skin irritation/degreasing with frequent contact.
Routes of Exposure
- Inhalation (vapour)
- Skin contact
- Eye contact
Workplace exposure to Isopropyl Alcohol 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.
- Use in well-ventilated areas only
- Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames
- Use explosion-proof electrical equipment in enclosed spaces
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use
- No smoking or naked flames in areas of use/storage
Recommended PPE
- Nitrile gloves
- Eye protection where splash risk exists
- Respiratory protection for prolonged/bulk use in enclosed space
Emergency Procedures
Data Sources
NHS Supply Chain SDS; UKHSA Isopropanol Incident Management; Redox/Univar SDS
Frequently asked questions
Is a COSHH assessment required for Isopropyl Alcohol?
Yes. Any UK employer whose staff work with Isopropyl Alcohol 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 Isopropyl Alcohol?
Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) for Isopropyl Alcohol 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 Isopropyl Alcohol?
The recommended PPE typically includes: Nitrile gloves; Eye protection where splash risk exists; Respiratory protection for prolonged/bulk use in enclosed space. Actual PPE requirements depend on how Isopropyl Alcohol 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 Isopropyl Alcohol?
Health surveillance under COSHH 2002 Regulation 10 is required for substances that are respiratory sensitisers, skin sensitisers, or carcinogens where exposure is significant. If Isopropyl Alcohol 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 Isopropyl Alcohol
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