Sulphamic Acid (Descaler) COSHH Data Sheet UK
A HSE-format UK COSHH data sheet reference for Sulphamic Acid (Descaler) (also known as Sulphamic Acid, Sulfamic Acid, Safer Descaler). 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), Aquatic Chronic Cat 3 (H412).
Health Effects
Considered a safer alternative to hydrochloric acid for descaling. Still irritating to skin and eyes at working concentration but does not release toxic fumes like HCl. Preferred by UK cleaning companies for indoor descaling tasks.
Routes of Exposure
- Skin contact
- Eye contact
- Inhalation of dust when dry
Workplace exposure to Sulphamic Acid (Descaler) 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.
- Prefer sulphamic acid over hydrochloric acid for indoor descaling where possible
- Dilute before use per manufacturer instructions
- Rinse thoroughly after use
- Store dry to prevent hydrolysis
Recommended PPE
- Nitrile gloves
- Eye protection
- Apron for splash protection
Emergency Procedures
Data Sources
UK descaler product SDS; HSE cleaning industry guidance
Frequently asked questions
Is a COSHH assessment required for Sulphamic Acid (Descaler)?
Yes. Any UK employer whose staff work with Sulphamic Acid (Descaler) 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 Sulphamic Acid (Descaler)?
Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) for Sulphamic Acid (Descaler) 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 Sulphamic Acid (Descaler)?
The recommended PPE typically includes: Nitrile gloves; Eye protection; Apron for splash protection. Actual PPE requirements depend on how Sulphamic Acid (Descaler) 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 Sulphamic Acid (Descaler)?
Health surveillance under COSHH 2002 Regulation 10 is required for substances that are respiratory sensitisers, skin sensitisers, or carcinogens where exposure is significant. If Sulphamic Acid (Descaler) 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 Sulphamic Acid (Descaler)
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