Understand the basics behind OSHA's new Hazard Communication ...

The U.S. Department of Labor?s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is taking steps to harmonize safety precautions and protect workers across the country from the dangers associated with hazardous chemicals.

Last year, the agency revised?its Hazard Communication Standard to align it with the United Nation?s global labeling system to make symbols?universal across all industries and businesses. OSHA estimated the new standard would prevent 43 deaths and generate about $475.2 million in worker productivity for businesses each year.

?Exposure to hazardous chemicals is one of the most serious dangers facing American workers today,? said Hilda Solis, U.S. secretary of labor. ?Revising OSHA?s Hazard Communication Standard will improve the quality, consistency and clarity of hazard information that workers receive, making it safer for workers to do their jobs and easier for employers to stay competitive in the global marketplace.?

Almost?70 percent of OSHA violations are associated with the hazard communication standard, according to Succeed Management Solutions, a training software provider. Injuries and illnesses caused by chemical exposure can cause employees to miss a significant number of work days and result in hefty workers? compensation claims for business owners.

The new standard, which is scheduled to be fully implemented in the U.S. by 2016, is expected to reduce confusion about chemicals in the workplace and improve safety training, especially for workers with low literacy levels. The new labels will characterize all chemicals created in the U.S. and imported from other countries based on health and physical hazards.

As a result, OSHA predicted the new standard will prevent nearly 600 injuries and illnesses every year. In addition, it is expected to help businesses that periodically update safety labels and data sheets save roughly $32.2 billion in related costs.

OSHA mandates employees are trained on the use and significance of the new labels by December 1, 2013.

Source: http://www.safeatworkaz.com/?p=1333

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