Hazard Communication Program

Hazard Communication Program

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) establishes uniform requirements to ensure that the hazards of all chemicals used in, produced by, or imported into U.S. workplaces are evaluated, and that this hazard information is transmitted to effected employees. One of the requirements of this standard is for employees to have a formalized hazard communication program. This program is intended to ensure the evaluation of the potential hazards of chemicals, communication of information regarding these hazards, and establishment of appropriate protective measures for employees.

Implementation of a Hazard Communication Program must include:

Ø Annual review and revision of a written program based on operation requirements, or as required by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.

Ø Outline appropriate labeling of containers, describing other needed forms of warning, and detailing the use and purpose of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

Ø Describe how employee information and training requirements will be met.

A copy of the written program must be readily available to employees. Copies of the MSDSs used in each area must also be available, preferably in each area where the chemicals are used. All employees must have convenient access to these materials at all times.

All employees must be provided with information and training on hazardous chemicals in their work areas, levels of exposure, control technology in place, labeling, etc. As well as provisions outlined in the Hazardous Communication Standard, this training must be conducted at the time of their initial assignment, and any time a new chemical is introduced into their work area that could produce a potential hazard.

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Safety and Health Topics: Hazard Communication Program [Occupational Safety and Health Administration]