OSHA Issues New Hazard Communication Standard Requirements

Chemical manufacturers, distributors and employers of all types need to take note of new Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements contained in OSHA's recently modified hazard communication standard (HCS). The modifications make the new HCS consistent with the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). The United States now joins the EU and numerous other countries in making this move.

Note that currently 27 states or U.S. territories have OSHA-approved plans. These states have six months from the publication of the new standard to adopt comparable versions. State governments may also enact federally approved plans that impose stricter (but not less strict) requirements on employers. Businesses must be aware of any such state rules and adjust their programs accordingly.