Developing a List of Hazardous Chemicals
The OSHA 1910.1200, Hazard Communication standard requires employers to develop a hazard communication program appropriate for their unique workplace.
An essential part of the program is the identification of all hazardous chemicals a worker may encounter in the facility. All employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces must:
- have appropriate chemical container labels,
- safety data sheets (SDSs) for their exposed workers, and
- training for all exposed workers on how to handle the chemicals appropriately.
All labels are required to have pictograms, a signal word, hazard and precautionary statements, the product identifier, and supplier identification.
The SDS is the best source of information such as the properties of specific chemicals; the physical, health, and environmental health hazards; protective measures; and safety precautions for handling, storing, and transporting chemicals.
Employers must provide employees with effective information and training on hazardous chemicals in their work area at the time of their initial assignment, and whenever a new chemical hazard the employees have not previously been trained about is introduced into their work area.
For more information on OSHA's hazardous communication standard, see OSHAcademy course 705 Hazard Communication Program.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-4. What is the best source of information on chemical properties; the physical, health, and environmental health hazards; protective measures; and safety precautions for handling specific chemicals?
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