OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart Z. The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is now aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This update to the HCS will provide a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets.
OSHA Standard 1926 Subpart O 1926.602(c)(1)(vi). The requirements applicable to construction work under this section are identical to those set forth at § 1910.1200.
- Hazard classification: Provides specific criteria for the classification of health and physical hazards, as well as the classification of mixtures.
- Labels: Chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to provide a label that includes a harmonized signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category. Precautionary statements must also be provided.
- Safety Data Sheets: Will now have a specified 16-section format.
- Information and training: Employers are required to train workers on the new label elements and safety data sheet format to facilitate recognition and understanding.
HCS Pictograms and Hazards
DIAMOND LABLES
Your first concern if utilizing the Diamond Label information is to know which system is being used!
What You Need to Know!
- You Have the Right To Know – If you are asked to use, or are exposed to any chemical and you do not know the hazards associated with the chemical, STOP WORK IMMEDIATELY. Remove your to a safe place and request and read the SDS sheets. At Quandel, you can find them in all job trailers.
- Training – You are required to have been trained in the proper uses of any product. If you have not been trained, STOP WORK IMMEDIATELY, and request training.
- PPE – You must be provided and trained to use the proper PPE for any chemical you are working with or around. If you do not have, or even suspect that you do not have, the proper PPE, STOP WORK IMMEDIATELY. Remove yourself to a safe area, and do not proceed until you have the PPE required on the SDS sheet, Section 8.
- Accidental Exposure – If you are exposed to any chemical, STOP WORK IMMEDIATELY, and review Section 4 of the SDS sheet. If you have any issues or concerns, call 911 and make sure that the SDS is available for the emergency response team.
- Needed Information – The first information you need to know when handling any product is in Section 1 of the SDS sheet; how to identify the product. A product ID# or product name is especially important.
- If you have any questions or concerns, contact your immediate supervisor and/or safety team.
- Remember to follow ALL of the above to prevent acute and/or chronic health effects.
