HAZARD COMMUNICATION Every employee has a “Right to Know” about chemicals.

1. HAZARD COMMUNICATIONEvery employee has a “Right to Know” about chemicals. The Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom) was created by Cal-OSHA to provide individuals with information about the chemical hazards on the job, and how to protect themselves against those hazards.

2. Hazard Communication cont. Chemicals are hazardous if they: • Cause acute health problems • (such as corrosives that can burn eyes or skin) • Cause chronic health problems • (such as toxic chemicals that can cause long-term illnesses, such as cancer)

3. Hazards cont… • Suddenly release pressure • (these explosive chemicals includes gases that could expand violently) • Are flammable/combustible • (chemicals that catch fire easily) • Are reactive • (these chemicals are not stable, and thus can burn, explode, or release dangerous vapors if exposed to heat, air, water, or certain other chemicals.)

4. Hazard Communication cont. The HazCom Standard details three-pronged compliance: 1) Chemical manufacturers are required to: • determine the physical and health hazards of each product they make. • provide detailed container labels and supply Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

5. Hazard Communication cont. 2) Employers are required to: • Make MSDS’s available to employees • Provide employees with training about the Hazard Communication Standard • Explain how it’s being put into effect in their workplace, including: • How to recognize, understand and use labels and MSDSs • Using safe procedures when working with hazardous substances

6. Hazard Communication cont. 3) Employees are required to: • Read labels and MSDS’s • Follow label and MSDS instructions and warnings. • You should know all about the chemicals you use BEFORE you attempt to use them.

7. Additional requirements: • All secondary containers of chemicals must be labeled with contents and hazard information if: • Container will leave the control of the initial user • Container will be stored * Avoid the use of old beverage containers.

8. HAZARD COMMUNICATION cont. Next steps… • Complete a chemical inventory. • Obtain Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for each chemical used or stored in your department. MSDS’s must be available to the employee. • Ensure that employees receive appropriate training.

9. HAZARD COMMUNICATION cont. How do I find MSDS’s? • Look up your chemical at www.msdsonline.com • Username: csuf • Password: bulldog • Call the chemical/product manufacturer or distributor. • “Google” your chemical/product or distributor • Call EH&S for assistance.

10. Hazard communication cont.Training… Determine the level of training needed Level 1: High chemical use/exposure potential (Research/laboratory, Ag or Grounds Maintenance) Consult with EH&S for training. Level 2: Medium chemical use/exposure potential (Plant Operations/Maintenance) Consult with EH&S to training. Level 3: Minimal chemical use/exposure potential (Administrative/Office work/Non-lab teaching) See outline of necessary training on next slide.

11. Hazard communication cont.Training… Level 3 Provide training on: • Location of your MSDS files (must be available to the employee at will) • Right to know law* • How to read labels* • How to read MSDSs* * Training handouts available from EH&S