Hazard Communication and GHS: What Employees Need to Know
Course Description:
Hazardous chemicals are found in many workplaces, and every day millions of workers face potential exposure. Therefore, it is important to know what chemicals are in your workplace, what hazards they present, and how to limit exposure to those chemicals.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Hazard Communication (HazCom) Standard requires that employees be informed of the hazards associated with the chemicals in their workplace and how to protect themselves from those hazards. This course describes how that information is conveyed to employees.
By the end of the training you will be able to explain the purpose of the HazCom standard; recognize the risks posed by hazardous chemicals in your workplace; explain the purpose and content of safety data sheets (SDSs) and how to access that information; interpret the information on chemical labels; and identify and apply appropriate measures to protect yourself from the chemical hazards in your workplace and respond to emergencies.
Why “Hazard Communication and GHS: What Employees Need to Know” Matters:
Hazardous chemicals in the workplace present significant health and safety risks to employees. Therefore, OSHA’s HazCom Standard requires employers to communicate with employees about chemical hazards in the workplace. Information on chemical hazards, how to protect yourself from those hazards, and what to do in the event of overexposure must be provided to employees via container labels, SDSs, training, and the written HazCom plan. Having this information will help employees work safely with hazardous chemicals.
Key Points:
• Hazard communication provides you with consistent, standardized information on the hazards associated with the chemicals at your facility.
• Many of the chemicals used at your facility present physical, health, or other hazards. Use the information available to you to learn about the potential hazards so that you may work safely.
• Containers of hazardous chemicals must be labeled with information to alert you to the hazards associated with the chemical and any precautions you should take while handling the chemical.
• SDSs provide more detailed information about the chemicals at your facility, and they must be immediately accessible to you in your work area. Take the time to read the SDS before working with a chemical.
• Working safely with hazardous chemicals requires taking appropriate measures to prevent or minimize exposure. Use the hazard communication information available to you to ensure you are implementing the proper controls and are utilizing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
