Hazard Communication
The Hazard Communication Standard (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200) is also known as the “Right to Know” standard.
Five stages of a HazCom Program:
- Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
- Labeling and Marking Systems
- Employee Training
- Written Plan
- Chemical Inventory List
Middlebury College’s Hazard Communication Program
OSHA has modified the HazCom standard to comply with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). GHS is an international approach to hazard communication, providing agreed criteria for classification of chemical hazards, and a standardized approach to label elements and safety data sheets.
Three Major Areas of Change
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Hazard classification: Definitions of hazard have been changed to provide specific criteria for classification of health and physical hazards, as well as classification of mixtures
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Labels: Chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to provide a label that includes a harmonized signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category
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Safety Data Sheets: No longer will be called Material Safety Data Sheets and will now have a specified 16-section format