Step by Step Guide to a Haz Comm Program

Create a Hazard Communication binder that is easily recognizable and large enough to contain the written plan, chemical inventory, Safety Data Sheets and training records. An example of a binder cover and section tabs to create a binder can be found in the supervisor and employee resources sections.

The Written Hazard Communication Plan addresses who is in charge of administering the Hazard Communication Program, the requirements for labeling of containers and other forms of warning, information employees need and the training requirements. The template for a Hazard Communication Written Plan can be found in the supervisor and employee resources sections.

Whenever hazardous materials are transferred into portable or secondary containers, the person transferring the material is responsible for ensuring that the portable container is labeled appropriately.  At a minimum, portable containers must include:

1. The name of the product (exactly as it appears on the related SDS); and
2. Appropriate pictograms or hazard statements.

If the container size allows for a larger label, the labels will include:

1. The name of the product (exactly as it appears on the related SDS);
2. Appropriate pictograms;
3. Applicable hazard statements; and
4. Appropriate signal word.

Examples of labeling and Avery label templates can be found in the supervisor and employee resources sections.

Each work unit must maintain a chemical inventory of all hazardous materials in the work area that is updated, at a minimum, annually. The person with primary responsibility for this program must ensure a complete file of Safety Data Sheets for the hazardous chemicals used by the workers for which he/she is responsible is maintained and accessible to his/her workers during their work shifts. This file must be organized for easy access to individual SDSs and cross-referenced to the inventory of hazardous chemicals.

Employees shall complete the online course titled “Hazard Communication with GHS.” In addition to these general training requirements, the person with primary responsibility for this program must ensure each employee for whom he/she is responsible is provided any extra training specific to the hazards present in the work unit area and document this training. Employees must be given the opportunity to review the specific Safety Data Sheets for the products they use in the workplace prior to using the product.