The goals of this written program are to document how your organization plans to ensure that employees are fully educated on the hazard communication process and the specific chemical products that they work with or around. Show
This plan must describe how you’ll address the requirements of these paragraphs from OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard: (f) Labels and Other Forms of Warning; (g) Safety Data Sheets; and (h) Employee Information and Training. The written program must list all the chemicals present in the workplace, designate who is responsible for the various aspects of the program, and specify where written materials will be made available to workers. The hazard communication process includes:
Common Sections in Your Written Hazard Communication ProgramRoles and Responsibilities: Chemical Inventory: GHS-Compliant Container Labeling: Safety Data Sheets (SDSs): Training Requirements: Contractor Requirements: Non-Routine Tasks: Documentation: How to Develop Your Chemical InventoryConduct a workplace survey to record all hazardous chemicals present. Identify all chemicals by reading the labels provided by the manufacturer (product identifiers include product name, product number, and the product’s hazards). Note the location(s) of the product(s) and where they are used. Employers are required to have safety data sheets (or SDSs for short) for all hazardous chemicals they use. So, once you’ve compiled a complete list of the chemicals, determine if you have SDSs for all of them. If any are missing, contact the supplier and request one. Also, make sure purchasing procedures are in place to confirm receipt of SDSs in real-time before using any new chemical. How KPA Helps Strengthen Your Hazard Communication ProgramKPA is here to help you maintain a comprehensive Hazard Communication program. HazCom Written ProgramKPA’s expert EHS consultants will help you develop a written program that is tailored to your business. It will include everything OSHA looks for including:
Hazard Communication Awareness TrainingKPA also provides online and on-site Hazard Communication training. Courses for both employees and managers cover how information about hazardous materials is communicated in the workplace. They also include information about how to read hazard labels and safety data sheets as well as the importance of the written program and training. SDS ManagementEnsuring your employees have quick and easy access to Safety Data Sheets may be the most important component of your Hazard Communication program. With KPA EHS you have access to a database of over 70 million datasheets. You can create your own SDS folders and custom SDS library with an easy to search interface. You’ll also have offline access and hardcopies to ensure all your staff can easily find SDSs. Finally, you can print pre-populated secondary container labels for GHS compliance.
The Ultimate Guide to Hazard CommunicationAre you following best practices for developing a solid HazCom program? Download NowToby GrahamAbout the AuthorToby manages the marketing communications team here at KPA. She's on a quest to help people tell clear, fun stories that their audience can relate to. She's a HUGE sugar junkie...and usually starts wandering the halls looking for cookies around 3pm daily. More by this authorRelated ReadingRead AllOSHA Reporting - Here's What You Need To Know To Make Reporting EasyEHSHere’s what you need to know about OSHA reporting and recordkeeping. What needs to be reported. The difference between reportable and recordable and much more. Read MoreThree Tips to Designing a Successful Workforce Training ProgramEHSThe most important principle of training is knowing your audience. Learn how to design and implement training for different learners and learning styles. What are the requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard?Hazard Communication Standard
All employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces must have labels and safety data sheets for their exposed workers, and train them to handle the chemicals appropriately.
Where are written hazard communication program is not required?The only work operations that do not have to comply with the written plan requirements are laboratories and work operations where employees only handle chemicals in sealed containers.
What is required in a written communication program?The program must include labels on containers of hazardous chemicals, safety data sheets (SDSs) for hazardous chemicals, and training for workers. Each employer must also describe in a written program how it will meet the requirements of the HCS in each of these areas.
What is the purpose of a written hazard communication program?The purpose of a Hazard Communication Program is to inform employees of the hazards associated with chemicals in their workplace and ensure the safe use, handling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
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