OSHA Updates Hazard Communication Standard
OSHA has issued a final rule that updates the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to align primarily with the seventh revision of the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). The final rule was published on May 20, 2024 and takes effect on July 19, 2024.
OSHA developed a series of Questions & Answers for the update, some of which are listed below. The link is provided to show all of the questions. https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/HCS_Q-and-As.pdf
Which establishments are covered by the update to the HCS?
The scope and framework of the HCS have not changed with this rulemaking. Chemical manufacturers and importers are still responsible for providing information about the hazards of chemicals they produce or import. All employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces continue to be required to have a hazard communication program and to provide information to employees about these hazards and associated protective measures.
Why is OSHA updating the HCS now?
OSHA is updating the HCS to improve dissemination of information about chemical hazards by improving and streamlining precautionary statements, providing additional clarification of existing regulatory requirements, incorporating new hazard classes and categories, increasing alignment with other U.S. agencies, and international trading partner.
What are some of the key changes in the update to the HCS and how do they align with international trading partners and other U.S. agencies?
Most of the key changes in this update fall under one of the following themes:
Maintaining alignment with the GHS (primarily Rev. 7) and U.S. trading partners (including Health Canada’s WHMIS)
Addressing issues identified during implementation of the 2012 update to the HCS
Improving alignment/coordination with other U.S. agencies (i.e., DOT, EPA, etc.)
An OSHA press release states that 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 safety data sheets.
Workers will also benefit from other changes in the updated standard, including a clearer hazard classification process to provide more complete and accurate hazard information on labels and safety data sheets; 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.
ACS stays current with all OSHA standard changes and updates our training accordingly. Should you need assistance, do not hesitate to contact ACS today at clientservices@acs-safety.com.