Why Hazard Communication Is So Important Labels and other forms of warning A warning label must be present on the immediate container of every hazardous chemical that enters your workplace. OSHA requires six categories of information be present on labels for the safety of workers. When you purchase a hazardous chemical from a supplier, you will receive a container that is labeled with the information required under the HCS. If you do not receive it this way, the chemical is not complaint with the standard. What’s required on a label? Product identifier: the name of chemical Signal word: a word to indicate the relative level of severity of the hazard Hazard statement(s): a statement to describe the nature of the hazard(s) of the chemical Pictogram(s): a symbol that is intended to convey information about the specific hazard(s) Precautionary statement(s): a phrase that describes the safe use of the hazard Supplier Identification: contact information of the responsible party Safety Data Sheets A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is the source of detailed information on hazardous chemicals. The newest version of the OSHA standard requires SDSs to have sixteen sections of information. If these sections are not all present on the sheet, ask your supplier for an updated form. Each sheet should be created and updated by the chemical manufacturer and must be obtained from the supplier or distributor before you use them in your workplace. NOTE: Not all sixteen sections may apply to every chemical and therefore may not be mandatory for OSHA compliance. However the headings are still required to be present on the SDS. What should I do with these sheets? 3 Maintain SDSs for each hazardous chemical in your workplace 3 Ensure SDSs are readily accessible to employees and OSHA or other regulatory officials 3 Obtain updated SDSs if a change to the hazardous substance has been made 16 Required Sections for OSHA Compliance 1. Identification 2. Hazard(s) identification 3. Composition/information on ingredients 4. First-aid measures 5. Firefighting measures 6. Accidental release measures 7. Handling and storage 8. Exposure control/personal protection 9. Physical and chemical properties 10. Stability and reactivity 11. Toxicological information 12. Ecological information 13. Disposal considerations 14. Transport information 15. Regulatory information 16. Other information SAFETY FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT CONTACT: SAFETYQUESTIONS@FASTENAL.COM OR 1-833-FNL-SAFE WF_669550 | JF 05/23
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