Safety Update: New 2024 OSHA Hazard Communication Standard
OSHA has issued a final rule to update the agency’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS).
Since 1983, the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) has provided a standardized protocol for communicating workplace hazards relating to exposure to dangerous chemicals. The final rule was published on May 20, 2024 and took effect on July 19, 2024.
This system provided common rules and standards chemical manufacturers and importers will have to adhere to and maintain, including
- a label that includes a signal word or pictogram,
- a hazard statement for each hazard class and category
The sole purpose of the GHS is to increase the consistency of information given to all chemical users by adopting a standardized approach to hazard classification, labels, and safety data. It is intended to increase safety in the workplace and make international trade in chemicals easier.
This system will allow workers, employers, and all chemical users globally, to understand even the most basic chemical information without any language restrictions.
Why is OSHA Updating the Hazard Communication Standard?
OSHA’s update to the HCS provides several benefits to the workplace and workers including:
- improving and streamlining precautionary statements
- providing additional clarification of existing regulatory requirements
- incorporating new hazard classes and categories,
- increasing alignment with other U.S. agencies, and international trading partner.
This update ruling will increase worker protections and reduce the incidences of chemical-related occupational illnesses and injuries by further improving the information on the labels and safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals.
When does the final Hazard Communication Standard rule go into effect?
OSHA has developed a tiered approach for establishments to implement the Hazard Communication Standard. This will allow chemical manufacturers and importers time to switch to the new format and allow time for training employees so they become familiar with the new system.
This chart outlines the tiered approach and timelines for implementation:
Side-by-Side Comparison of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Changes
This chart provides an side-by-side comparison of the changes OSHA has made to from 2012 Standards to the most recent 2024 ones. This is a helpful resource that enable you to see exactly what has changed and how.
https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/HCS_side-by-side.pdf
This information is provided as a service to you by Compliance Consultants, Inc.
