TheHazardCommunicationStandard(regulatedbyOSHA).docVIP

The Hazard Communication Standard (regulated by OSHA) The Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910-1200), also known as the “Right to Know Law,” provides to staff members the right to know about chemical hazards in their workplace. As part of this standard, new staff members from affected departments receive training immediately upon hire. Training includes information on: Staff members’rights under the standard; Physical and health hazards of the materials and methods of detection; Where to locate and how to read the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) covering toxic or hazardous substances used, handled, or stored in their workplace; Applicable protective equipment, clothing for personal protection; and Labeling of substances that are hazardous. Affected departments include Administrative Staff, Facilities Services, Faculty and research staff, and students. Each staff member is given a copy of the written Hazard Communication Program upon hire. All staff have the right to access any MSDS during their normal work shift. MSDS can also be obtained by from the Physical Plant Office, the Environmental Health Safety Manager or by going on-line. Many manufacturers have complete listings of MSDSs available on their websites. WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CHEMICALS? A chemical is considered hazardous if that chemical is likely to cause harm. There are two types of hazards associated with chemicals: Physical Hazards: the way a chemical interacts with other substances or the environment Examples: explosion, ignition (fire), reacting violently with other substances Health Hazards: the way that a chemical interacts with your body Examples: short-term (dizzy, headaches, nausea); long-term (cancer, damage to internal organs) Not all chemicals can be detected by odor. There are other ways to detect a release or presence of chemicals. Other ways to detect are by appearance, odor, or immediate effects. WHAT WILL THE LABELS LOOK LIKE? Va