Hazard Communication has gained attention recently with the changes taking place in the labeling and MSDS uniformity requirements. Labels must be consistent across manufacturers so an employee working with the same chemical from two manufactures receives the same warning messages. The MSDS format and layout has been universally established, so the order and way information is the same. This allows employees working with the hazard to quickly reference the area they need.
Hazard Communication has gained attention recently with the changes taking place in the labeling and MSDS uniformity requirements. Labels must be consistent across manufacturers so an employee working with the same chemical from two manufactures receives the same warning messages. The MSDS format and layout has been universally established, so the order and way information is the same. This allows employees working with the hazard to quickly reference the area they need.
The Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) must be received at the time of first shipment received and available to employees that will work with the hazard. An employee working directly with the chemical and the person transporting the chemical equally need to know how to interact with the chemical to safely perform their role. The knowledge of the chemical further promotes an understanding of then how to interact safely.
Training must be taken by each employee by the time they are assigned to work with the hazard. OSHA does not consider simply handing an employee an MSDS to be properly training and educating employees about the hazard. The employer’s training program is to be a form to explain the hazards and how to properly use the information. Training can be taken through audiovisuals, interactive video, and classroom instruction; but most importantly should include the opportunity for the employee to ask questions to ensure they understand the information presented. That is not to say that each individual chemical must individually be trained, but by category. The categories might include acutely toxic agents, sensitizers, and carcinogens.
Household products present in the workplace such as ‘White Out’ or ‘Windex’ do not need to have MSDS on file if the usage is at levels that a consumer would use and in the manner as directed. If an employee uses more than a typical consumer then they have a right to better understand the product they are working with. Concurrently, if the product is the same, but needs to be used not as directed, the employee would have the right to better understand the implications with an MSDS sheet.
Hazard Communication revolves around promoting a greater understanding by employees of what the potential dangers are of working with the substance. OSHA regulations continue to evolve and update to implement new techniques and create safer work environments. Click hereto contact a Certified Industrial Hygienist in your area to assist you with keeping up with the new regulations regarding Hazard Communication.
Occupational Health Overcomes Everyday Hazards
Many workers face different types of hazards on a daily basis. Each company has a responsibility to proactively protect their employees from hazards encountered in the workplace. Accidents or injuries can bring production to a halt, reduce the workforce while the employee is recovering and lead to costly worker compensation claims. A Certified Industrial Hygienist can help your company improve the Occupational Health present at your facility.
The Risk from Asbestos
Asbestos poses a major health risk in many office buildings and homes due to the wide adoption and usage of asbestos as an insulator in the construction process. Asbestos can be found in the glue beneath vinyl flooring or in material applied to concrete to regulate the temperature between floors in an office building. These buildings and homes are being remodeled and modernized as an update to the space, but the demolition process can be hazardous if asbestos is present. Test for asbestos prior to starting your next remodeling project to ensure workers are safe.
Communicating the Dangers with HazCom
Hazard Communication focuses on explaining the dangers present at the workplace. The employees have a right to understand the hazards present and how to remain safe on the jobsite. A Certified Industrial Hygienist can work with your company to fulfill the HazCom requirement set forth by OSHA.
