WEEKLY TOOL BOX SAFETY MEETINGS
HAZARD COMMUNICATION
Chemicals are everywhere and many things that we do today would be impossible without them. OSHA defines a hazardous chemical as any chemical that presents a physical hazard or a health hazard. Some are poisonous, others can cause serious chemical burns. Some may affect the respiratory system, still others can cause cancer and long term health problems. This is just a partial list of the hazards you may face. We have to identify these hazardous chemicals and know how to use them correctly or we may end up suffering dire consequences.
The key to chemical safety is following the written Hazard Communication Program. The Hazard Communication Standard requires that every employer who uses hazardous chemicals develop, implement, and maintain a written Hazard Communication Program. This program must include: a list of all hazardous chemicals that are in use with a reference to the appropriate Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS); the method to be used to inform employees of the hazards associated with non-routine tasks; the method to be used to inform other employers of chemical hazards if a multi-employer workplace exists; a detailed explanation of the labeling system in use; how to access and use the MSDS file; and complete details on how employees are informed and trained, including specific procedures, emergency procedures, and any personal protective equipment that may be required. In addition, employee training, as well as the program, must be updated whenever a new chemical is introduced into the workplace.
Hazard communication is really a joint effort between employer and employee. The employer must provide you with information and training, and you must truly pay attention and use the knowledge in the field to prevent accidents, injuries, illnesses, and deaths. Year after year the Hazard Communication Standard has been one of the standards most frequently cited by OSHA. Clearly, as an industry we have not learned our hazard communication lesson. Working together to comply with the standard will benefit both you and your employer.
Remember that just because something looks harmless, doesn’t mean that it is. The only way to know for sure is to read the label and the MSDS. Knowing the identity and the associated hazards of the chemicals you work with is essential for your health and safety.
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Topics Pertaining To Your Project ________________________________________________________________
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Employee Safety Recommendations ___________________________________________________________
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Meeting Attended By: Please sign your name and date.
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These instructions do not supersede local, state, or federal regulations.
Supervisor’s Signature ______________________________________________________________________
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