2024 Hazard Communication Update

Recently OSHA updated the Hazard Communication (HAZCOM) Standard which controls the rules on how to handle potentially harmful chemicals in the workplace. Effective on July 19th, the intent of the updated standard is to align with international trade partners and make things easier for manufacturers and distributors to transport chemicals. Let's dive into some of the updates to the standard and refresh employers on their responsibilities regarding hazardous chemicals.

What’s New
Some of the major changes found between the 2012 and 2024 standards include:

• Definition changes including Bulk Shipment, Combustible Dust, Immediate Outer Package, Physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP), and Released for Shipment
• Manufacturers must have a percentage range for each ingredient, including those listed as Trade Secret
• Bulk Shipping and labeling can more closely align with DOT, requiring pictogram on immediate container
• Items in containers 100mL or smaller can have a label with summarized information
• Labels must also contain US telephone numbers and addresses for a manufacturer, importer or distributor

Here is a side-by-side comparison between the 2012 and 2024 standards for review: 
https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/HCS_side-by-side.pdf

Employer Responsibilities

• Training on potentially harmful chemicals employees work around
• Provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for those products
• Have a written program on how to handle chemicals and what to do in case of an emergency
• Help protect workers from exposure to hazardous products via engineering controls or PPE

Why Does This Matter to You
About 3,500 workers are injured and another 1,000 die each week from exposure to hazardous substances and from not understanding the proper protocols in case of a spill or exposure. These updates will assist in providing more information to anyone distributing or working with hazardous chemicals and providing them with safe operating procedures. Familiarize yourself with the pictograms and proper hazards via OSHA's Quick Card and view the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) of any chemicals you use in your workplace. To keep the conversation going, download the Hazcom Update Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.

2024 HazCom Update