OSHA Hazcom Training Requirements

Hazcom is short for hazard communication. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to create, implement and maintain a hazard communication program. This program is a comprehensive safety and health plan designed to prevent illnesses and injuries caused by hazardous substances. Employee hazcom training is conducted to ensure workers understand what the hazards are, how to prevent an accident, and how to react and protect themselves if an accident occurs. Federal regulation 29 CFR 1910.1200 is the standard OSHA uses to determine program requirements.

Detection and Observations

• Employers are required to place detection devices in hazardous areas. Workers should be trained to understand what types of devices are being used and how they work. Employees should also understand how to report suspected hazards, such as an unusual odor or visibility (like mist or cloud).

Health Hazards

• Workplace health hazards can include materials that are flammable, corrosive or carcinogenic. To ensure worker safety, hazcom training must include how to identify the hazards the material represents and how to avoid it.

  One of the major tools for material information is called the material safety data sheet (MSDS). Virtually every substance, from ink toner to corrosive chemicals, has an MSDS. There is no standard format for an MSDS, but at a minimum, it should contain the following information: manufacturer's name, address and emergency contact information; specific identity of the material (both its chemical name and its commercial name); the physical and chemical characteristics, such as boiling point, melting point and solubility in water; fire and explosion data, such as flash point and special firefighting procedures; reactivity data, which means how the material reacts when mixed with or exposed to other substances; health hazard data, including how it enters the body, symptoms of exposure and first aid steps; safe handling precautions; and control measures that outline the personal protective equipment (PPE) necessary.

Protection Measures

• All employees who work in a hazardous area are required to be trained in procedures and methods of protection against exposure. This training includes proper work practices (such as proper handling and storage of hazardous materials), understanding warning labels and MSDSs, emergency procedures in case of exposure (evacuation and notification), and the proper use of PPE.

  PPE includes respirators, gloves, boots, protective suits and eye protection, depending on the hazard. Employees are trained how to properly check equipment for serviceability and how to properly don and wear the protective gear.