CPR, First Aid, Fire Safety and Safety Training

The best way to protect yourself and your employees from hazardous chemicals is to know what chemicals that your organization uses and/or stores, the hazards associated with them and their proper and safe use. Since 1980, a number of federal, state and local laws have required every employer to provide this information to their employees through a written hazard communication (HAZCOM) program (also known as Employee Right to Know). This program guarantees workers the right to review their own exposure records and monitor chemical use within the company. HAZCOM training also helps your employees familiarize themselves with the proper response should a spill or release occur. This training complies with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.1200 for Hazard Communication.

Employers that "use" hazardous chemicals must have a program to ensure the information is provided to exposed employees. "Use" means to package, handle, react, or transfer. This is an intentionally broad scope, and includes any situation where a chemical is present in such a way that employees may be exposed under normal conditions of use or in a foreseeable emergency.

1910.1200 (h)

Employers shall provide employees with effective information and training on hazardous chemicals in their workarea at the time of their initial assignment, and whenever a new physical or health hazard the employees have not previously been trained about is introduced into their work area. Information and training may be designed to cover categories of hazards (e.g., flammability, carcinogenicity) or specific chemicals. Chemical-specific information must always be available through labels and material safety data sheets. The location and availability of the written hazard communication program, including the required list(s) of hazardous chemicals, and material safety data sheets required by this section.

The measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards, including specific procedures the employer has implemented to protect employees from exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be used; and,

The details of the hazard communication program developed by the employer, including an explanation of the labeling system and the material safety data sheet, and how employees can obtain and use the appropriate hazard information.