Why Safe Handling of Chemicals Training Matters

Having a procedure for safely handling hazardous chemicals in the workplace helps maintain safety compliance and prevents costly injury. Accordingly, employers must follow the requirements managed under the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). Generally, all employees should understand and receive training on the hazardous chemicals in their work area. To help accomplish proper training, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) created the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). Under the HCS, employers that keep chemicals in their workplace must implement a hazard communication program.

According to the GHS-aligned HCS, every program must include:

• Detailed labeling on containers of hazardous chemicals
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all hazardous substances
• Employee information and training on hazards and safety procedures

In addition, OSHA continues to expand workplace protection standards. For example, in September 2021, OSHA announced efforts to create a heat-related illnesses prevention standard to ensure workplace protections across the country.

What Is the Globally Harmonized System (GHS)?

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) is a worldwide standard of the United Nations that provides a system of classification for chemical hazards to be communicated to workers and emergency responders, regardless of where in the world the chemicals are being manufactured or used. The GHS establishes a standard labeling and classification system of hazardous chemicals, regardless of the country. By utilizing GHS Standards, employers can ensure that all employees, regardless of work experience with hazardous chemicals, will recognize the chemical hazards in the same way based on the symbols, language, and format established.

A Standardized Approach to Labeling and Safety

To help employers and employees better understand potential safety hazards, as well as proper procedures associated with handling hazardous chemicals, OSHA revised its HCS to align with the GHS. In essence, this provides a standardized approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. Accordingly, the HCS now includes the following:

• Labels: Chemical manufacturers and importers must label all chemical products. The label must include a signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each class and category.
• Pictograms: Pictograms are graphic symbols used to communicate specific information about the hazards of a chemical.
• Hazard Classification: Specific criteria for the classification of health and physical hazards.
• Safety Data Sheets: Employers must keep safety data sheets for their exposed workers in a specified 16-section format.
• Information and Training: Employers are required to train workers on new label elements and safety data sheets to ensure recognition and understanding.

Written Program for Handling Hazardous Chemicals

Employers that have hazardous chemicals in the workplace must describe how they will meet HCS and GHS training requirements in a written program. In brief, to implement an effective hazard communication program, employers can follow six steps:

• Learn the Standard and Identify Responsible Staff Understand OSHA’s HCS and assign personnel to manage compliance.
• Prepare and Implement a Written Program Document all procedures for labeling, training, and SDS management.
• Ensure Containers are Labeled Verify all primary and secondary containers display compliant GHS labels.
• Maintain Safety Data Sheets Keep updated SDSs for all hazardous substances accessible to all workers.
• Inform and Train Employees Provide comprehensive training on hazard recognition, label interpretation, and SDS use.
• Evaluate and Reassess the Program Review the program regularly to ensure ongoing compliance with new regulations.

GHS Compliance Training Module

Overall, educating employees about chemical hazards, safety data sheets, and chemical labels complies with HCS and GHS training requirements. Furthermore, a procedure for handling hazardous chemicals maintains a safe workplace. To help employers fulfill mandatory employee training requirements covering the GHS standard, WorkWise Compliance created the GHS Compliance Training for Employees. The online, interactive module helps employees understand HCS policies and procedures, navigate the GHS standard, and interpret the elements of chemical labels and different sections of safety data sheets.

FAQs

Who must get GHS/HazCom training and when?

Any employee who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals must be trained at the time of initial assignment and whenever a new chemical hazard is introduced into their work area. Temporary and part-time workers are included.

Does OSHA require annual GHS training?

OSHA doesn’t mandate “annual” by default. Retraining is required when there are changes (new hazards, new processes/labels/SDS) or if an employee shows lack of understanding. Many employers refresh annually as a best practice.

What must a compliant HazCom/GHS label include?

A workplace label or shipped container label should show the product identifier, signal word (Danger/Warning), hazard statement(s), pictogram(s), precautionary statement(s), and supplier information. Secondary containers need labeling unless they’re under the immediate control of the user and used within the same shift.

What is required for Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?

SDS must be in the 16-section GHS format, kept readily accessible to employees during each work shift, and kept up to date. Workers must be trained to find and interpret key SDS sections relevant to their tasks.

What has to be in the written Hazard Communication program?

It should identify responsible staff, describe labeling, SDS management, and employee information & training, cover non-routine tasks, and explain how you share hazard info with contractors/multi-employer worksites. Include your chemical inventory and the procedures for periodic review.