IN 2012, OSHA updated the standard on Hazard Communication. New guidelines were put in place requiring, among other things, more rigorous training surrounding the communication of hazardous materials, with a training deadline of December 1st. That deadline is soon approaching, and a failure to properly train employees will be a serious problem for employers.

The update to the standard aligned it with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. This creates an easier system for employees when trying to understand what chemicals they are working with, and should create a safer workplace.

The full update is coming in phases, and one of the most important phases, the training phase, is required to be completed by Saturday. If you have not finished, or even started, to prepare for this update, it is time to take a hard look at your safety plan to ensure you will be ready by December 1st.

Employers must train their employees on the type of information which might be found on the new required labels. Employees must also be trained on how the various warnings on a label work together, and how to most effectively utilize the labels at work. Additionally, employees must be trained on the new 16-section format and the new Safety Data Sheets.

If you have any questions about the updates to the hazard communication standard, about the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, or about the December 1st training deadline, please contact us. And if you have anything to add about these topics, please leave a comment.