Carcinogen
A substance, mixture or process that causes or is capable of causing cancer. Each framework classifies carcinogens and imposes specific control duties. The classification categories differ between GHS-based systems in the UK/Ireland and the OSHA HazCom appendices.
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“carcinogen”Exact equivalentCOSHH 2002 defines a carcinogen in regulation 2(1) as any substance or preparation which is classified as carcinogenic (category 1 or 2) under the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation; any substance, preparation or process referred to in Schedule 1 of COSHH; or any dust when present at a concentration sufficient to cause harm. Employers must assess exposure and take specific additional measures for carcinogens.
Irish HSA
“carcinogen”Close equivalentThe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Carcinogens and Mutagens) Regulations 2001 (as amended) implement EU Directive 2004/37/EC in Ireland. A carcinogen is defined as a substance, mixture or process listed in the Regulations or classified as carcinogenic under EU CLP Regulation. Employers must apply a hierarchy of controls and maintain a register of exposed workers.
US OSHA
“carcinogen”Close equivalentOSHA defines carcinogens in the context of HazCom (29 CFR 1910.1200 Appendix A) using GHS-aligned classification criteria. Additionally, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1003 to 1910.1016 set specific standards for named carcinogens. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Group 1 and 2A listings are relevant to OSHA enforcement of the General Duty Clause.
Practitioner note: Substitution comes first. Where a carcinogen cannot be eliminated, exposure must be reduced as low as reasonably practicable, not merely held below the exposure limit.