OSHA News

OSHA emphasizes hazard communication compliance

In 2004, OSHA is increasing its enforcement and compliance assistance for hazard communication, one of OSHA's most far-reaching and most cited standards. The hazard communication standard, adopted in 1984, covers some 650,000 hazardous chemical products and more than 30 million American workers.

OSHA is using its Web site to communicate much of the new information, which is currently undergoing public review and does not reflect official agency policy, but it does provide insight into what the agency regards as key issues to address.

These documents include:

• Hazard Determination Guidance to help chemical manufacturers and importers evaluate their materials.
• Model Training Program for employee training, include slides that employers can adapt to their workplaces.

Guidance for Preparation of MSDSs (material safety data sheets) will be added at a later date.