(29 CFR 1910.1200 Compliant)
Provider: OpsIntegrity^TM

Purpose of the Hazard Communication Standard:

The HazCom Standard ensures that:

• Employers evaluate chemical hazards.
• Employers provide employees with information about these hazards through a comprehensive hazard communication program, including container labeling, SDSs, and employee training.

Your Right to Know:

You have the right to understand the hazards you may be exposed to and how to work safely.

Introduction and Summary

Introduction:

Chemicals are a part of almost every workplace. From simple cleaning supplies to complex industrial substances, chemicals help us complete critical tasks every day. However, when not handled properly, these materials can pose serious risks to your health and safety. That is why OSHA created the Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200)—to ensure that all employees know about the chemical hazards they may face and understand how to protect themselves.

The Hazard Communication (HazCom) training module you are completing today provides an overview of these important requirements. It explains how to recognize chemical hazards, how to read labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and what actions to take to prevent injuries or illnesses caused by hazardous substances.

The ultimate goal is to make sure that everyone in the workplace can work safely and confidently around chemicals, whether using them directly or working near chemical operations.

Your Role as an Employee:

As an employee, you play a critical role in chemical safety by:

• Reading and following all labels and SDS for chemicals you work with.
• Using the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Following safe handling, storage, and disposal procedures.
• Reporting missing or damaged labels, missing SDSs, spills, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Participating in all required HazCom and chemical safety training.
• Asking questions when unsure about a chemical or procedure.

Remember: You have the right to know and understand the hazards you are exposed to in the workplace.

Your Employer’s Responsibilities:

Your employer has important duties under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, including:

• Maintaining a written Hazard Communication Program.
• Keeping an up-to-date chemical inventory.
• Ensuring all containers are properly labeled.
• Providing access to Safety Data Sheets for all hazardous chemicals.
• Offering training to employees on chemical hazards and safe practices.
• Supplying the correct PPE and other protective measures.

All of these requirements are designed to reduce the risk of chemical-related injuries and illnesses in the workplace.

OpsIntegrity: Your Resource for Chemical Safety

Your employer uses OpsIntegrity, an online safety portal, to provide access to essential safety information and resources. As part of this Hazard Communication Program:

• The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Library is maintained in OpsIntegrity, giving you 24/7 access to detailed information about the chemicals used in your workplace.
• All HazCom-related training materials and records are stored and available in the OpsIntegrity system.
• Additional resources, including safe work practices, PPE guidelines, and emergency procedures, are also accessible through the portal.

We encourage you to take time to explore the OpsIntegrity Safety Portal, especially the SDS library, HazCom training materials, and other critical safety information. Familiarizing yourself with these resources is essential to working safely and complying with both company policies and OSHA regulations.

Conclusion

Understanding chemical hazards and following safe work practices protects not only your health but also the safety of your coworkers and the community. By actively participating in the Hazard Communication Program and using the resources provided through OpsIntegrity, you help create a safer workplace for everyone.

If you ever have questions about a chemical, a procedure, or a safety concern, do not hesitate to speak with your supervisor or designated safety contact. Safety is everyone’s responsibility, and knowledge is the first step toward prevention.

Thank you for your attention and commitment to workplace safety.

Our Most Important Objective: A Safe and Healthful Workplace

At OpsIntegrity, we believe that maintaining a safe and healthful workplace is the highest priority for every employer and employee. This principle forms the foundation of all training modules and safety resources provided through the OpsIntegrity system.

Employers are responsible for:

• Providing a workplace free from recognized hazards.
• Complying with OSHA standards and other applicable safety regulations.
• Promoting continuous improvement in safety practices.
• Empowering workers to report safety concerns without fear of retaliation.

Employees are responsible for:

• Following safety procedures and practices at all times.
• Reporting safety concerns, hazards, or near misses.
• Actively supporting the safety culture of their workplace.

Through OpsIntegrity’s shared resources, training, and compliance tools, employers and employees work together to identify risks, prevent injuries, and maintain a strong commitment to safety excellence.

Safety is not just a policy. It is a shared responsibility and a daily practice.

Key Elements of HazCom Program:

1. Written Hazard Communication Program:

• Must describe how the workplace complies with the standard.
• Available to employees upon request.

2. Chemical Inventory:

• A complete list of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace.

3. Labels and Warnings:

• All hazardous chemicals must be labeled.
• Labels must include:
  
  • Product identifier
  • Signal word ("Danger" or "Warning")
  • Hazard statement(s)
  • Pictograms
  • Precautionary statements
  • Supplier information

4. Safety Data Sheets (SDS):

• 16-section standardized format.
• Must be readily accessible to all employees.

5. Employee Training:

• Covers the hazards of chemicals, protective measures, and where to find more information.

Understanding Labels and Pictograms:

Signal Words:

• Danger: More severe hazards.
  Warning: Less severe hazards.

Hazard Statements:

• Describes the nature of the hazard (e.g., “Causes severe skin burns”).

Precautionary Statements:

• Recommends measures to minimize or prevent adverse effects.

Pictograms:

OSHA requires the use of 9 standardized pictograms:

Safety Data Sheets (SDS):

There are 16 Required Sections of an SDS:

1. Identification
2. Hazard(s) identification
3. Composition/information on ingredients
4. First-aid measures
5. Fire-fighting measures
6. Accidental release measures
7. Handling and storage
8. Exposure controls/personal protection
9. Physical and chemical properties
10. Stability and reactivity
11. Toxicological information
12. Ecological information
13. Disposal considerations
14. Transport information
15. Regulatory information
16. Other information

Note: SDSs must be readily accessible at all times during work hours.

Employee Responsibilities:

• Read and understand labels and SDS.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow safe handling, storage, and disposal practices.
• Report damaged labels or missing SDS immediately.
• Report any exposure incidents or unsafe conditions.

Employer Responsibilities:

• Maintain an up-to-date written HazCom program.
• Keep a current chemical inventory.
• Ensure all containers are properly labeled.
• Provide and maintain accessible SDS for all chemicals.
• Train employees on HazCom requirements and any new hazards.
• Provide appropriate PPE and safety equipment.

Safe Handling and Emergency Procedures:

• Review SDS before using any chemical.
• Use chemicals only as directed.
• Store chemicals according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Use proper PPE at all times.
• Know the location of emergency equipment (showers, eyewash stations, fire extinguishers).
• Follow spill response procedures outlined in the SDS.
• Report spills and exposures immediately.

Training Requirements and Frequency:

• Initial Training: Before working with hazardous chemicals.
• Refresher Training: Whenever new hazards are introduced or when an employee
• demonstrates inadequate understanding.

Summary and Key Takeaways:

• OSHA’s HazCom Standard protects you by ensuring you are informed about chemical hazards.
• Always check labels and review SDS before using chemicals.
• Wear appropriate PPE and follow safe practices.
• If in doubt, ask your supervisor or safety contact.
• Your safety is a shared responsibility.