Can I outsource hazardous substances testing?

Yes, you can outsource hazardous substances testing! Many businesses do this to meet regulations like COSHH without needing to invest in expensive equipment or train staff for specialised tasks.

Advantages of outsourcing:

Expertise: External labs have the knowledge, certifications, and up-to-date tech to handle the testing properly.
Cost-effective: If you don't need constant testing, outsourcing can be cheaper than buying equipment and training your team.
Less hassle: You won’t need to worry about staying on top of testing methods and regulations; the consultant does that for you.

Disadvantages of outsourcing:

Control: You’re relying on an external party, which means less control over the process and timings. However, coordination is usually dealt with by the contractor.
Ongoing costs: While it’s cheaper upfront, regular outsourcing fees can add up over time for situation which require ongoing monitoring.
Accountability: Even if you outsource, you’re still responsible for your workplace’s safety. While you do not need to worry about the testing element of the process, you are still fully responsible for overall health and safety. This does not change whether you outsource or not.