OSHA has updated the rules for Hazard Communication and set deadlines for the new updates to be implemented
. Material Safety Data Sheets have been revised to become a more intuitive tool. Warning labels that mark hazardous material have been updated to become universal across different manufacturers. The Global Harmonize Standard has been adopted to make international commerce less cumbersome.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) have evolved to be more useful to the worker by being more intuitive and uniform across multiple sheets. MSDS were previously very specific about the required content, but the structure could be put together in whatever order the manufacturer deemed appropriate. The order is now changing to be uniform. This simple tweak will allow the workers to reference the needed section quickly to divulge the information needed. The information can then be used in a timelier manner by the worker. This small change can make a big difference in an emergency, when working with hazardous material.
Warning labels on the sides of the hazardous material containers are being revised to also be more uniform. Labels could have varied slightly in the past between manufacturers and the variance could lead to confusion by the worker. The labels now have a classification system to indicate the appropriate label to manufacturers of the hazardous material. Each different manufacture will denote the same warnings for the same material. The uniform presentation allows for fast recognition of the inherent dangers. The labels have been given a similar appearance with colors and shape to allow for the label to be readily identified.
The adoption of the Globally Harmonized System allows for the United States to join a league of other countries with unified rules to further simplify the commerce of hazardous materials across international borders. The containers will now have the appropriate warnings and will not require retrofitting to happen during the shipping transition. Workers that speak different languages can identify the same warnings and take the appropriate precautions.
Hazard Communication has evolved and is scheduled to continue to change in the future. A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) can work with your company to keep you on top of the mandate changes. This specialist can decipher the rules that impact your company and offer suggestions on ways to implement the changes needed. The Certified Industrial Hygienist is an invaluable tool to work with your company. Click here to contact a CIH today and take the first step.