Know the chemical before the task
Learning objective: Find the information and people needed before working with a hazardous chemical.
A drum arrives at a production area. It looks like the material used yesterday, but its label has a different product name. The familiar task has changed. Before using it, identify the product, find its safety data sheet, and confirm that your instructions and controls apply.
Hazard Communication connects four things: the employer’s written program, chemical identification and labels, safety data sheets (SDSs), and effective employee information and training. A label gives a quick warning. An SDS gives more detail. The employer’s procedures explain how those hazards are controlled during your actual work.
What the employer must explain
- Which operations in your work area involve hazardous chemicals.
- Where to find the written program, chemical list and SDSs.
- How to recognize chemical hazards, use the employer’s protections and respond within your assigned role.
Training is required at initial assignment and when a new chemical hazard that employees have not already been trained about is introduced. A new product may fit hazards already taught, but someone must check. A familiar product may also have revised hazard information. Report changes so the employer can decide what additional instruction is needed.
This course teaches common skills. Your employer must connect those skills to its chemicals, tasks and procedures. Ask your trainer whenever the information is unclear. Instruction must use language and vocabulary you understand.
Source context: 1910.1200(b), (e), (h)(1)-(2)