On Feb. 5, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a proposed rule to update its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to align it with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
OSHA is accepting comments on the proposal until 60 days after its publication, which is expected on Feb. 16, 2021.
The current HCS provides a uniform approach to workplace hazard communications associated with exposure to hazardous chemicals. The rule was updated in 2012 to align it with the GHS in order to provide a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information.
The Proposed Rule
This HCS update aims to help employers improve the quality and consistency of the information recorded on safety data sheets (SDSs) and how they communicate this information to their workers. OSHA believes improved information and communication will increase worker protections and reduce the incidence of chemical-related occupational illnesses and injuries. The proposed modifications include:
- Revised criteria for classification of certain health and physical hazards;
- Revised provisions for updating labels;
- New labeling rules for small containers;
- Technical amendments related to the contents of SDSs; and
- Revisions to definitions of terms used in the standard.
Next Steps for Employers
Employers subject to the HCS should review this proposed rule to determine whether it affects their current information and communication processes. These employers should also continue to monitor OSHA’s website for updates on the proposal.
This update aims to help employers improve the quality and consistency of the information recorded on SDSs and how they communicate this information to their workers.
Important Dates
Feb. 5, 2021
OSHA released the proposed HCS rule.
Feb. 16, 2021
Expected date of publication in the Federal Register.
April 19, 2021
Expected deadline for comments on the OSHA proposed HCS rule.
This Legal Update is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel for legal advice. ©2021 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.