Hazard Communication

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), often referred to as HazCom or the “Right to Know” law, is a regulation established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States. Its goal is to ensure that the hazards of all chemicals produced or imported are evaluated, and that information concerning these hazards is transmitted to employers and employees.

The standard was revised in 2012 to align with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), making chemical hazard information more consistent and easier to understand worldwide.

Five Key Elements of a HazCom Program

Every workplace that uses or stores hazardous chemicals must have a comprehensive, written Hazard Communication Program that addresses five core elements:

1. Written Program: A detailed document outlining how the company will meet the HCS requirements, including how they will manage labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), and training.
2. Chemical Inventory List: A master list of all hazardous chemicals present in the workplace. This list should use the same product identifier (name) that appears on the chemical’s label and SDS.
3. Labeling and Warnings: Ensuring all containers of hazardous chemicals are properly labeled with consistent, GHS-aligned information.
4. Safety Data Sheet (SDSs): Maintaining an easily accessible, comprehensive SDS for every hazardous chemical on site.
5. Employee Training: Providing effective information and training to all employees who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals in their work area.

GHS-Aligned Labels

The revised standard mandates that chemical labels include six standardized elements to ensure immediate recognition of hazards:

1. Product Identifier: The name or number used for the chemical.
2. Signal Word: Used to alert the reader to a potential hazard and indicate severity. Only two works are used:
   • DANGER (for more severe hazards)
   • WARNING (for less severe hazards)
3. Pictograms: Standardized graphic symbols inside a red diamond frame that convey health, physical, and environmental hazard information. (Examples: Skull & Crossbones for toxicity, Flame for flammability).
4. Hazard Statement: A phrase describing the nature of the hazard (e.g., “Causes serious eye damage”).
5. Precautionary Statements: Recommended measures to minimize or prevent adverse effects (e.g., “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection”).
6. Supplier Identification: Name, address, and telephone number of the chemical manufacturer or importer.

Employee Training Requirements

Employers must provide effective training to employees at two times:

1. Initial Assignment: Before a worker is exposed to any hazardous chemicals.
2. When a New Hazard is Introduced: Whenever a new chemical hazard (not just a new chemical, but a new hazard class) is introduced into the work area.

Training must cover:

• The requirements of the HazCom Standard.
• How to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical (e.g., visual appearance, odor, monitoring).
• The physical and health hazards of the chemicals in the work area.
• Measures employees can take to protect themselves, including specific procedures, work practices, and the proper use of PPE.
• Details of the employer’s specific HazCom program, including an explanation of the labels and how to obtain and use the SDSs.

Understanding HazCom is essential for workplace safety. By mastering the five core elements — the Written Program, Chemical Inventory, GHS Labels, SDSs, and comprehensive Employee Training — you ensure the safe handling of hazardous chemicals.

Remember, your “Right to Know” requires consistent effort. Ensure labels are legible and SDSs are always accessible.