Hazard Communication standard revised

OSHA recently announced the final rule for the long-awaited update to OSHA’s Hazard Communication standard (HCS). The update aligns it with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).

OSHA’s HCS requires chemical manufacturers and importers to evaluate the hazards of the chemicals they produce or import, and prepare labels and material safety data sheets (MSDS) to convey the hazards and associated protective measures to users of the chemicals.

Agricultural retailers and distributors will be required to modify MSDS manuals, chemical labels and mandate employee training requirements to accommodate the changes. The first compliance deadline is Dec. 1, 2013. Click here for information on the details of all compliance needs and deadlines.

Click here to see the new HazCom Sample Label. OHSA’s Quick Facts on GHS are available here.

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