Hazard Communication Standard

In order to ensure chemical safety in the workplace, information about the identities and hazards of the chemicals must be available and understandable to workers. OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires the development and dissemination of such information:

• Chemical manufacturers and importers are required to evaluate the hazards of the chemicals they produce or import, and prepare labels and safety data sheets to convey the hazard information to their downstream customers;
• All employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces must have labels and safety data sheets for their employees, and train them to handle the chemicals appropriately.

In Idaho, the Division of Building Safety (DBS) has issued guidelines under their General Health and Safety Standards that includes Hazard Communication.

Major changes to the Hazard Communication Standard

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is now aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This update to the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) will provide a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. Once implemented, the revised standard will improve the quality and consistency of hazard information in the workplace, making it safer for workers by providing easily understandable information on appropriate handling and safe use of hazardous chemicals. This update will also help reduce trade barriers and result in productivity improvements for American businesses that regularly handle, store and use hazardous chemicals as well as provide cost savings for American businesses that periodically update safety data sheets and labels for chemicals covered under the hazard communication standard.

• Hazard Classification: Provides specific criteria for classification of health and physical hazards, as well as classification of mixtures.
• 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. Precautionary statements must also be provided.
• Safety Data Sheets: Now have a specified 16-section format.
• Information and training: Since Dec. 1, 2013, employers have been required to train workers on the new labels elements and safety data sheets format to facilitate recognition and understanding.

Related Training

• Hazard Communication with GHS
• Hazard Communication Guide for Supervisors

For more information

Mark Borth
Hazardous Materials Specialist
208-885-6279
borth@uidaho.edu