Why Hazard Communication Is So Important Chemicals are present in almost every aspect of modern life from cleaning solutions to pesticides to paints. While these chemicals have their uses and benefits, they also have the potential to cause adverse effects, especially on the health of the people handling these hazardous substances. To ensure employees are aware of the specific chemical dangers they face at their workplace, employers are required by OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), 29 CFR 1910.1200, to create and implement a hazard communication program. The sections below will help you to understand the four main requirements of an OSHA compliant program. 49% of burn related deaths are from chemical burns 12 days on average missed due to exposure to harmful substances or environments 798 workers died due to exposure to harmful substances or environments in 2021 Written Hazard Communication Program OSHA requires employers to prepare and implement a written hazard communication program. It doesn’t need to be lengthy or complicated. It is simply required to ensure compliance with the standard. What do I need to include? • A list of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace • The system that will be used for warning labels for workplace labeling – often referred to as secondary containers • Detailed information on how/when employees will be trained to the requirements of the standard • A process for Employee Information and Training on the requirements of the standard • The method for how employees will be informed of hazards for non-routine tasks and things like unlabeled piping SAFETY FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT CONTACT: SAFETYQUESTIONS@FASTENAL.COM OR 1-833-FNL-SAFE WF_669550 | JF 05/23
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