Safety & Workers Comp

Executive Summary

ABC Company / Hazcom Requirements

Overview:

Employers are required to provide a written Hazcom program that outlines how ABC Company will ensure the inclusion of product labels, MSDS sheets, employee training, and information requirements for hazardous chemicals employees experience within the company.

Currently ABC Company is not meeting all requirements set forth by OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), 29 CFR 1910.1200.

Summary:

After careful review of the hazardous chemical processes and procedures set by ABC Company, areas of concern were found. First, MSDS sheets are stored in the HR office. This is a direct violation of OSHA requirements. These documents must be located in areas where employees have free and immediate access to review. Also, MSDS sheets must be up-to-date and available for every chemical our employees come in contact with.

ABC Company also lacks a written hazard communication program and standard operating procedures for chemical labeling, training, updating MSDS documents, and program review as required by OHSA.

Recommendations:

My recommendation is to create a Hazcom program that aligns with the OSHA requirements. This will require ABC Company to create a standard operating procedure that outlines the Hazcom program, including regular program and content review intervals.

• Create SOP’s for labeling, updating MSDS sheets, & methods for informing employees of the hazards of non-routine tasks and chemicals.

• Designate a point person who will manage MSDS records and update as chemicals update/change.

• Take stock of all the chemicals used and ensure there is an MSDS sheet in the binder. Move the updated MSDS binders to chemical workstations and/or central locations where chemicals may be used. ABC Company would also benefit from the creation an online database that can be accessed from anywhere.

• Create a training program that ensures employees know the Hazcom program, where to find MSDS sheets, how to safely handle and label chemicals, and what to do in case of an accident.

• Create a training process to ensure that employees know how to handle new hazardous chemicals.

Finally, set up training sessions to inform and/or update employees on the new Hazcom program and where to located more information on ABC Company’s written hazard communication program.

Created by: Missy Ortman - HR