Laserfiche WebLink
All workplaces where workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals must have a written hazard <br />communication program that describes how the HazCom standard is implemented in that facility. When <br />hazard communication is implemented effectively, it has significant benefits for both the employer and <br />the workers in a workplace. Employers need the information provided to them in order to assess the <br />safety and health aspects of their workplace appropriately, and to select needed control measures for <br />the chemicals that are present. The information provided on Safety Data Sheets (SDS's) may also be <br />used by employers to select the least hazardous chemical available to accomplish what is needed in the <br />workplace. Substitution of a less hazardous chemical benefits workers because they will not be exposed <br />to the greater hazards of harsher substances, and benefits employers because they may have less need <br />for controls in some situations. The information employers receive on labels and SDS's will help them <br />meet requirements for a safe and healthful workplace. <br />Workers are entitled to the information about the identities and hazards of the chemicals they are <br />potentially exposed to when working. When workers have such information, they are able to take steps <br />ito protect themselves, and to implement the controls their employer has selected for them. Knowing <br />the health effects of exposure to hazardous workplace chemicals is important so that any signs or <br />symptoms of exposure can be evaluated. Furthermore, being aware of the chemicals and associated <br />hazards can help the worker determine how the exposure may affect pre-existing medical conditions. <br />HazCom 2012 requires employers to both provide certain information to employees and to train <br />employees. The standard requires employees to be informed of: <br />The general requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard; <br />® Where hazardous chemicals are located in their work areas (operations where exposure may occur); <br />and, <br />m What the workplace hazard communication program includes, and where and how they can access <br />the program. <br />Training, on the other hand, is a more active.process. The training conducted to comply with HazCom. <br />2012 must address the following: <br />9 <br />