Annual Hazard Communication Training

As we begin the new year it is important to remember the safety requirements set forth by our federal government, states, and municipalities. A federal standard that almost every company needs to abide by is the hazard communication standard. The hazard communication standard governs the evaluation and communications of hazards associated with chemicals in the workplace.

One of the first questions any OSHA inspector will ask an employee during an inspection is where the hazard communication binder is. This binder will contain all your safety data sheets. Safety data sheets contain the information that will warn you about the potential harmful effects of a chemical. The safety data sheet does more than just warn you. Contained in each sheet you will find information on what to do if someone is exposed. Furthermore, the safety data sheet will inform you on what types of precautions you should be taking while using the chemical.

All of this seems simple and straight forward. So where do companies mess up? Failing to train every employee on the hazard communication procedures, where the binder is located, and failing to update the safety data sheets are the typical areas of concern.

What do I need to do to stay in compliance?

1. Develop a written plan for your hazard communication program.
2. Develop a chemical inventory that includes a list of all chemicals.
3. Ensure you have a current safety data sheet for each chemical.
4. Ensure all the chemicals are labeled properly.
5. Ensure every employee is trained annually on your hazard communication program.

What was your last hazard communication training like? What do you like or dislike about the new system? How do you ensure you obtain a safety data sheet for each new chemical brought on site?

Click here to download our free safety meeting on Annual Hazard Communication Training.