Hazard Communication informs employees about the dangers that they face on a day to day basis. This knowledge will lead employees to a better understanding of how to safely work in the different environments. The focus of Hazard Communication is shifting to adapt an international initiative to stream line the information about the dangers of hazardous chemicals when shipping across international borders. This initiative is known as the Globally Harmonized Standard or GHS.
Hazard Communication informs employees about the dangers that they face on a day to day basis. This knowledge will lead employees to a better understanding of how to safely work in the different environments. The focus of Hazard Communication is shifting to adapt an international initiative to stream line the information about the dangers of hazardous chemicals when shipping across international borders. This initiative is known as the Globally Harmonized Standard or GHS.
Prior to the adoption of GHS, hazardous chemicals containers would need to be modified when passing over an international border. Labeling and accompanying warning information would be changed to meet the receiving country’s safety standards. The Globally Harmonized Standard alleviates this transition to expedite the shipping process by having both countries meet the same safety standards.
The warning label for each hazardous chemical has been modified to allow for quick recognition by the employees interacting with that container or utilizing that hazardous chemical. Employees can then more clearly understand the different dangers of the chemical and interact with the chemical appropriately.
The Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) have also been modified to a new title and a uniform layout. Now called Safety Data Sheets (SDS) will have information presented in the same order to allow employees to find the needed information in a quick and efficient manner. The vital data is typically utilized in a stressful or time sensitive environment and a uniform order allows the employee to make best use of his time, rather than searching for the needed information.
Click hereto contact a Certified Industrial Hygienist can work with your company on preparing for the transition to the Globally Harmonized Standard for Hazard Communication. The company has a responsibility to educate employees about the dangers they face in the workplace every day. Continuing education for the employees is a requirement and can be arranged and presented by the Certified Industrial Hygienist to keep your company up to date and in compliance. OSHA can issue large fines for companies that do not comply with their mandates. A successful company takes proactive steps to provide a safe and efficient work environment for each employee at the facility. Accidents or injuries can lead to costly worker compensation and lead to production delays. Safety should be top of mind for the employees as they fulfill their daily responsibilities. Take the first step today by contacting a Certified Industrial Hygienist to prepare your company for the next step.
Occupational Health Overcomes Everyday Hazards
Many workers face different types of hazards on a daily basis. Each company has a responsibility to proactively protect their employees from hazards encountered in the workplace. Accidents or injuries can bring production to a halt, reduce the workforce while the employee is recovering and lead to costly worker compensation claims. A Certified Industrial Hygienist can help your company improve the Occupational Health present at your facility.
The Risk from Asbestos
Asbestos poses a major health risk in many office buildings and homes due to the wide adoption and usage of asbestos as an insulator in the construction process. Asbestos can be found in the glue beneath vinyl flooring or in material applied to concrete to regulate the temperature between floors in an office building. These buildings and homes are being remodeled and modernized as an update to the space, but the demolition process can be hazardous if asbestos is present. Test for asbestos prior to starting your next remodeling project to ensure workers are safe.
Communicating the Dangers with HazCom
Hazard Communication focuses on explaining the dangers present at the workplace. The employees have a right to understand the hazards present and how to remain safe on the jobsite. A Certified Industrial Hygienist can work with your company to fulfill the HazCom requirement set forth by OSHA.
