OSHA Hazard Communication Standard updated to better protect workers, first responders

This summer, the Department of Labor announced a final rule to update the current OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. The updates, which took effect July 19, were designed to better protect workers by improving the amount and quality of information on labels and safety data sheets, and allow workers and first responders to react more quickly in an emergency.

The following changes will benefit all SMACNA Greater Chicago members and the industry as a whole:

• Labels on small packaging are required to be more comprehensive and readable, and changes have been made to help ensure trade secrets no longer prevent workers and first responders from receiving critical hazard information on safety data sheets.
• A clearer hazard classification process will provide more complete and accurate hazard information on labels and safety data sheets.
• Updated physical hazard classes will better inform users on safe handling of explosives, aerosols and chemicals under pressure.
• Updated precautionary statements advise users on how to safely handle, store and dispose of hazardous chemicals.

The final rule also addresses issues that arose since the implementation of the 2012 standard and improves alignment with other federal agencies and Canada.