The Hazard Communication Standard is an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation that sets standards for the effective communication of chemical hazards in the workplace. It also includes requirements for the use of Safety Data Sheets (SDS). These safety documents are essential for workers to understand the hazardous nature of chemicals they may encounter in their work.
Hazardous chemicals in the workplace must be properly labeled and tagged. In addition to this, workers must receive appropriate training. When new chemicals are introduced into the workplace, employers must provide training. They must provide safe working practices and personal protective equipment. Employers must ensure that the labels on hazardous chemicals are updated as soon as the information is made available to them.
A Hazard Communication Program is a written document that outlines the steps to be taken to ensure effective hazard communication and minimize worker exposure to these chemicals. This program should be reviewed on a regular basis. During the review, the program will be evaluated for accuracy and completeness. Additionally, the program will be checked to ensure it complies with the Hazardous Communication Standard.
The five elements of the hazard communication standard are the labeling system, the material safety data sheet, the precautionary statement, the employee training, and the written program. Each of these elements has a specific purpose. However, the main objective of a comprehensive hazard communication program is to ensure that all employees are able to identify and effectively communicate the risks posed by their work environment.
The hazard communication standard requires employers to train employees on the risks and hazards associated with the use of hazardous chemicals. This training should take place in a language that is easily understood. Also, records must be kept of the training and the topics covered. Employees should be given adequate notice of their rights under the Hazardous Right-to-Know Law and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
Labels can be printed on the container or affixed to the outside of the container. The label contains a number of information elements, such as a hazard statement, a precautionary statement, a signal word, a pictogram, and the name of the chemical. These parts are meant to tell workers how dangerous the chemicals are, how to avoid coming into contact with them, and where to find more information.
The written hazard communication program must also address employee training. Generally, this training will cover the physical hazards of the chemical and the appropriate protective measures to take in case the chemical is spilled or exposed to an employee. As part of the training, employees will be taught about the Hazard Communication Standard and how to use Safety Data Sheets.
The hazard communication program must be reviewed periodically to reflect changes in the workplace. During this review, the site-written hazard program will be evaluated for accuracy and completeness. If the program is not accurate, the Hazard Communication Program Administrator will make adjustments to the program to remedy any errors.