OSHA Updates Hazard Communication Standard

On May 20, 2024, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a final rule that will update the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to improve the amount and quality of information on chemical labels and safety data sheets (SDSs) to better protect workers. The final rule will take effect on July 19, 2024. State Plans that have their own hazard communication regulation, such as Cal/OSHA, must adopt provisions that are at least as effective as the final rule. OSHA created an informational fact sheet detailing the pertinent changes to the HCS.

Briefly, the updated standard will require labels on small packaging to be more comprehensive and readable and makes changes to help ensure trade secrets no longer prevent workers and first responders from receiving critical hazard information on SDSs. Changes include a clearer hazard classification process to provide more complete and accurate hazard information on labels and SDSs; updated physical hazard classes to better inform users on safe handling of explosives, aerosols and chemicals under pressure; and updated precautionary statements on how to safely handle, store and dispose of hazardous chemicals.

Chemical manufacturers, importers, and distributors of chemical substances have 18 months from the effective date to update labels and SDSs for chemical mixtures. Employers have 2 years after the effective date to update their hazard communication program and provide updated training to employees.

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