Santa received a notice of violation(1910.1200) Hazard Communication #2 on OSHA’s TopTen violations for 2019

Santa admits that he’s been so busy running the family business that he has not always kept up with changes.  He was very surprised to find out that his old MSDS book was incredibly out of date.  Back in 2012, the U.S. joined the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) which makes it easier for companies in classifying, labeling and producing data sheets for chemicals by complying with one system, globally.  As of June 1, 2016, it became mandatory for all U.S. companies under Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) or as it’s also referred to HazCom.

If you work where chemicals are produced, stored, shipped, transported or used you face a number of health hazards including irritation of skin, eyes or lungs and physical hazards like flammability or corrosion.  That is why you must have training on HCS and understand the processes and procedures that you must use in the handling, shipping or any form of exposure to chemicals.  All of the information is included in the Safety Data Sheets (SDS)  and labeling of item requirements.  The Safety Data Sheets should be located at every warehouse or facility where it is accessible by ALL.  Anyone who is involved, the truck driver loading chemicals, the UPS driver delivering, the dock forklift driver, the order picker, the clerk at the cheap retail store.  You all should have access to the SDS so you know what you are dealing with, what protective measures you must use and what to do in the case of a spill or leak.  The main change between old MSDS and current SDS is the order the information must appear:

1. Identification
2. Hazard(s) identification
3. Composition/information on ingredients
4. First-aid measures
5. Fire-fighting measures
6. Accidental release measures
7. Handling and storage
8. Exposure controls/personal protection
9. Physical and chemical properties
10. Stability and reactivity
11. Toxicological information
12. Ecological information
13. Disposal considerations
14. Transport information
15. Regulatory information
16. Other information

Santa and crew are busy updating their SDS and chemical handling procedures as well as training,  It feels like we cleared a pretty big hurdle but the biggest is yet to come.    Monday: On the Tenth Day.