Hazard Communication Program (HAZCOM)

The next Steps cover Cal/OSHA safety regulations for a Hazard Communication Program (HAZCOM). Where appropriate, we have referenced the code from Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations.

The topics we will cover in this Navitent are:

-Hazardous Chemicals
-Employers' Responsibility
-Communication Program Requirements
-Program Availability
-Labeling Requirements
-Safety Data Sheets
-Training

After each of the next Steps, select the 'successful' response to indicate that you have read and understand the Step.

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Hazardous Chemicals

A Hazardous chemical is any chemical which is classified as a physical hazard or a health hazard, a simple asphyxiant, combustible dust, pyrophoric gas, a hazard not otherwise classified, or is included in the List of Hazardous Substances prepared by the Director pursuant to Labor Code section 6382.

These chemicals may include solvents, paints, thinners, cleaning agents, fresh concrete, and fuels. Employers whose employees may be exposed to hazardous chemicals are required to have a HAZCOM program.

Employers' Responsibility

Employers must develop, implement, and maintain at the workplace a written HAZCOM program which includes information on labels, warning, safety data sheets, training requirements, and other relevant information as per 5194.

Communication Program Requirements

The program must include the following:

-A list of the hazardous chemicals that are used or stored in the workplace. It must include any chemicals listed in the following:
a. The Hazardous Substances List. 339
b. The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR, Part 1910, Subpart Z).
c. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances in the Work Environment (ACGIH) latest edition.
d. Chemicals identified and regulated under Title 8, Article 107, Dusts, Fumes, Mists, Vapors and Gases, and Article 109, Hazardous Substances and Processes. 5194(d)(3)
e. T22 CCR 12000 (Proposition 65).

-Labels and other forms of warning on containers of hazardous chemicals

-Readily accessible Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)

-Procedures for safe handling, use, storage, disposal, and clean-up to protect employees
Note: all hazardous liquids capable of physical injury on skin contact must be covered, insulated or otherwise guarded against inadvertent contact. When the nature of the work makes covering or guarding impracticable, employer must provide personal protective equipment. 3302

-Training on the hazardous chemicals that employees are or could be exposed to in the workplace

-The methods the employer will use to inform employees of the hazards of non-routine tasks and the hazards associated with chemicals contained in unlabeled pipes in their work areas. 5194(e)(1)(B)

-Clear and reasonable warnings for exposures to hazardous chemicals shall be displayed in the workplace using warning signs and labels or provided through information and training. 5194. Appendix G #12601(c)

-For each chemical included in the HAZCOM program, the information provided on the warning signs and labels must include all of the required texts as per the T8CCR requirements for that specific chemical

-A plan for managing multi-employer work-site issues including the methods used to inform other work related employers

-A plan for periodically (e.g. annually) evaluating the effectiveness of the program and for updating the program

Program Availability

The HAZCOM program must be available on request to employees, their representatives, and Cal/OSHA.

Note: the Guide to the California Hazard Communication Regulation is available free of charge from Cal/OSHA.

Labeling Requirements

Employers must make sure that:

-Each container of hazardous chemicals in the workplace is labeled, tagged, or marked. Information can be provided using labels on shipped containers or with required information such as product identifiers, pictograms, precautionary and hazard statements, first aid information, and signal words. 5194(f)(6)

-The labels on incoming containers of hazardous chemicals substances are not removed or defaced

Safety Data Sheets

Employers are required to:

-Have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for each hazardous chemical which they use

-Use Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) that are consistent with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS)

-Make the Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) readily accessible during each work shift to employees when they are in their work areas

Training

Employers must provide all required information and training as per 5194(h) to their employees. The training includes:

-Labeling, pictograms, symbols, etc.

-Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) including physical and health hazards

-Chemical-specific information must always be available through labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)

-Location of hazardous chemicals

-Where the written HAZCOM program is kept

-Detection of presence or release of hazardous chemicals

-Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and appropriate work practices

-Emergency and first aid procedures

How much did this Navitent help you to understand the Cal/OSHA safety regulations for a Hazard Communication Program (HAZCOM), including:

-Hazardous Chemicals
-Employers' Responsibility
-Communication Program Requirements
-Program Availability
-Labeling Requirements
-Safety Data Sheets
-Training

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