OSHA’s revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires all employers with hazardous chemicals in the workplace to have a written hazard communication program. This includes labels, safety data sheets, and employee information and training.
Major changes to the Hazard Communication Standard:
- Chemicals will be classified according to their health and physical hazards.
- Labels will have a signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category.
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) (formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets or MSDS) must be in a specific 16-section format.
- Employers must train workers on the new label elements and safety data sheets by December 1, 2013.
The Federal Register will publish the HCS final rule on March 26, 2012. Provisions will be phased in over the next three years. Compliance Poster Company’s hazardous material information posters play an important part of a complete hazard communication program. All OSHA posters are being reviewed to make sure they meet new requirements. For more information, visit OSHA online.