Hazard communication (HazCom) has ranked No. 2 on OSHA’s list of most cited violations for four consecutive years starting in 2012. This signifies OSHA prioritizing the HazCom standard and we can only expect more focus on HazCom with recent updates and alignment to GHS. Ranking as the No. 2 most cited standard also shines light on how companies are struggling to meet this standard.
What is causing companies to have difficulty meeting the HazCom standard? A major contributor to the issue is the alignment with GHS. The GHS adoption brings a big change in categorizing and classifying hazardous chemicals. In accordance to GHS, all MSDS must be converted to GHS compliant SDS June 1, 2015. Although the deadline has passed, many companies have yet to complete their MSDS conversions. Contact us today if you or someone you know is in need of MSDS conversions, we can help!
For those that have converted their MSDS into GHS compliant SDS, good job! You’re on the right track! However, just having your converted SDS isn’t enough to be in compliance with the HazCom standard. Follow the tips below to make sure your company workers are getting the full benefits of your HazCom plan.
- Designate a person(s) to be responsible for SDS Management
OSHA published a guide titled Small Entity Compliance Guide for Employers that Use Hazardous Chemicals. In the guide, OSHA states that inspectors will look for the following
- Designation of person(s) responsible for obtaining and maintaining updated SDS
- Written plan of how SDS are maintained in the facility and how workers can access SDS
- Procedures to follow when SDS is not received with first shipment
- Each hazardous chemical in the facility to have an SDS and that workers are trained to utilize SDS
- Take advantage of new technology
Three ring binders, filing cabinets, and excel spreadsheets were once the go-to solution to organize paper based MSDS. Today, web-based SDS management solutions have become more powerful and affordable. Unfortunately, even with modern technology readily available, it is human nature to resist change, and many companies are still using three ring binders, filing cabinets, and excel spreadsheets.
Quantum’s Web-based SDS Management Software allows for a centralized location for businesses to upload, organize, search via keywords, and utilize updated SDS. Being cloud based, allows for multiple users to access the same information from anywhere with Internet connection, allowing everyone to be on the same page. Users will experience a significant reduction on the amount of time spent organizing and searching through paper files
- Archive Old Safety Data Sheets Carefully
OSHA Standard 29 CFR, 1910.1020 also known as the Access to Employee Exposure and Medical Records Standard, mandates that employers must maintain safety data sheets or record of hazardous chemicals that were used, as well as when it was used, for 30 years beyond the date of use.
Quantum’s Web-based SDS Management software allows you to easily store and archive unlimited SDS, ensuring your compliance to this standard.
