Free training in #AltusOK

OSHA update: Employers are requiredto train workers by December 1, 2013 on the new GHS label elements and safety data sheets format to facilitate recognition and understanding. 

Southwest Technology Center now has two trained instructors to provide this training for your employees at no cost to your business.  Contact Tim Rabalais  (trabalais@swtech.edu)580-480-4739 to get on the list to meet this new OSHA deadline.

 

Globally Harmonized Systems

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently revised the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS).  These changes are now underway as the HCS aligns with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals utilized around the world. These revisions are significant and affect all employers who manufacture, distribute, store and use chemicals.

Standardization should remove confusion as chemicals are imported and exported around the world.  Without a system of standardized warning labels and symbols, it caused a lot of dangerous confusion for the workers handling the materials. The new system will help deter chemical related injuries or misunderstandings.

Key provisions of the revised Hazard Communication Standard include:

• Hazard classification:  The will be a new system and set criteria for classifying the hazardous properties of chemicals. This classification system offers very specific instructions as to the classification of any and all health and physical hazards in additional to mixtures’ classifications.
• Labels:  Under the new labeling system all chemical importers and manufacturers will be expected to utilize labels that include a signal word, pictogram and hazard statement from the new harmonized system.
• Safety Data Sheets:  Detailed chemical safety information will be required and must follow a uniform 16-section format.
• Information and Training: Employers are required to train workers by December 1, 2013 on the new GHS label elements and safety data sheets format to facilitate recognition and understanding.  This is required to aid in the recognition and understanding of these important changes.

 

Tim Rabalais

Business Development Coordinator

Southwest Technology Center

580-480-4739