The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has finalized changes to its hazard communication regulations that modify requirements for labels and safety data sheets.
The changes, which take effect July 19, will “allow workers and first responders to react more quickly in an emergency,” the agency says in a press release.
The changes to OSHA's hazard communication standard are in line with the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, and will require labels on small packaging to be more comprehensive and readable. It also makes changes to help ensure trade secrets no longer prevent workers and first responders from receiving critical hazard information on safety data sheets,” OSHA said.
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There also will be a “clearer hazard classification process to provide more complete and accurate hazard information on labels and safety data sheets; updated physical hazard classes to better inform users on safe handling of explosives, aerosols and chemicals under pressure; and updated precautionary statements on how to safely handle, store and dispose of hazardous chemicals,” the agency says.
