Chemical Management

A hazardous chemical is defined by the HazCom standard as any chemical that poses a physical or health hazard. Employees may be exposed to chemical hazards in the workplace in the form of liquids, solids, gases, vapors, fumes, and mists.

Chemicals pose a wide range of health hazards (such as irritation, sensitization, and carcinogenicity) and physical hazards (such as flammability, corrosion, and reactivity). OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS or HazCom) is designed to ensure that information about these hazards and associated protective measures is disseminated to employees who are exposed.

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) provides a single set of harmonized criteria for classifying chemicals according to their health and physical hazards and specifies hazard communication elements for labeling and safety data sheets. In 2012, OSHA modified its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS or HazCom) to align with the provisions of GHS.

A hazardous chemical’s Safety Data Sheet or SDS (previously called material safety data sheet or MSDS) is the detailed source of information for that chemical prepared in accordance with paragraph (g) of 1910.1200. The SDS provides information to workers and employers — what the chemical looks and smells like, the hazards, how to store it, and how to dispose of it — which can help establish appropriate protective measures.

Safety data sheets (SDSs) are required if your employees use hazardous chemicals, other than household chemicals which used in a manner similar to typical consumer use. The SDSs must be readily available to employees as part of the company’s hazard communication program.

The HazCom regulations require manufacturers or importers to provide distributors and employers with a safety data sheet (SDS) with their first initial shipment, and with the first shipment after an SDS has been updated. Manufacturers or importers are responsible for updating the SDS when there is a change to the chemical.