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1 WRITTEN HAZCOM PROGRAM DISCLAIMER: This written program is simply a guide to help you develop your own written Hazard Communication Program. The producer disclaims all liability and makes no warranty of it's correctness, accuracy or usability. "Canned" written programs, such as this cannot be relied upon. They are just guides and the user has the responsibility to seek appropriate legal, medical and other professional advice in relationship to any safety or training program. THE WRITTEN PROGRAM A written hazcom program includes many elements. Each is extremely important because it’s your company’s guide to the entire CHEMICAL SAFETY Program. There must be written policies and procedures relating to all aspects of chemicals and hazardous materials. Your written plan may be somewhat different and more detailed, but basically a good written HAZCOM program contains the following elements: This Written Plan requirement may take some time and effort. Keep in mind, it’s the company’s guide to your Hazard Communications program and should be as detailed as possible. The plan should include a list of the hazardous chemicals in your facility and procedures for multi-employer worksites. The written program must be made available to employees and their designated representatives upon request. Policies, procedures, rules, methods, safety and other information must be included in the written HAZCOM plan. GLOSSARY OF TERMS Cancer: The occurrence of a malignant tumor of potentially unlimited growth that expands locally by invasion and systematically by metastasis (transmission from one part of the body to another). CFR: Code of Federal Regulations. Chemical: Any element, chemical compound, or mixture of elements obtained by a chemical process or used for producing a chemical effect. Chemical Name: The scientific designation of a chemical in accordance with the nomenclature system developed by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) or the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) rules of nomenclature, or a name which will clearly identify the chemical for the purpose of conducting a hazard evaluation.

WRITTEN HAZCOM PROGRAM - Health & Safety Courses · 1 WRITTEN HAZCOM PROGRAM DISCLAIMER: This written program is simply a guide to help you develop your own written Hazard Communication

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WRITTEN HAZCOM PROGRAM DISCLAIMER: This written program is simply a guide to help you develop your own written

Hazard Communication Program. The producer disclaims all liability and makes no warranty of it's

correctness, accuracy or usability. "Canned" written programs, such as this cannot be relied upon.

They are just guides and the user has the responsibility to seek appropriate legal, medical and other

professional advice in relationship to any safety or training program.

THE WRITTEN PROGRAM

A written hazcom program includes many elements. Each is extremely important

because it’s your company’s guide to the entire CHEMICAL SAFETY Program. There

must be written policies and procedures relating to all aspects of chemicals and hazardous

materials. Your written plan may be somewhat different and more detailed, but basically

a good written HAZCOM program contains the following elements:

This Written Plan requirement may take some time and effort. Keep in mind, it’s the

company’s guide to your Hazard Communications program and should be as detailed as

possible. The plan should include a list of the hazardous chemicals in your facility and

procedures for multi-employer worksites. The written program must be made available

to employees and their designated representatives upon request. Policies, procedures,

rules, methods, safety and other information must be included in the written HAZCOM

plan.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS Cancer: The occurrence of a malignant tumor of potentially unlimited growth that expands locally by invasion and systematically by metastasis (transmission from one part of the body to another). CFR: Code of Federal Regulations. Chemical: Any element, chemical compound, or mixture of elements obtained by a chemical process or used for producing a chemical effect. Chemical Name: The scientific designation of a chemical in accordance with the nomenclature system developed by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) or the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) rules of nomenclature, or a name which will clearly identify the chemical for the purpose of conducting a hazard evaluation.

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Common Name: Any designation or identification such as code name, code number, trade name, brand name or generic name used to identify a chemical other than by its chemical name. Container: Any bag, barrel, bottle, box, can, cylinder, drum, reaction vessel, storage tank, or the like that contains a hazardous chemical. Employee: A worker who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals under normal operating conditions or in foreseeable emergencies. Workers such as office workers who encounter hazardous chemicals only in non-routine, isolated instances are not included. Exposure: Employee subjection to a hazardous chemical by inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or absorption. Flash Point: The minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off a vapor insufficient concentration to ignite. Hazardous Chemical: Any chemical, which is a physical or health hazard. Health Hazard: A chemical for which there is statistically significant evidence based on at least one study conducted in accordance with established scientific principles that acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees. The term "health hazard" includes chemicals, which are carcinogens, toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives, sensitizers, hepatotoxins (liver damage), nephrotoxins (kidney damage), neurotoxins (nervous system damage), agents which act on the hematopoietic system (decreases hemoglobin function), and agents which damage the lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous membranes. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Written or printed material concerning a hazardous chemical which is prepared in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1200 (g). OSHA: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL): An exposure limit established and enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which may be expressed as a time-weighted average (TWA) limit, short term exposure limit (STEL), or ceiling exposure limit. Physical Hazard: A chemical for which there is scientifically valid evidence that it is a combustible liquid, compressed gas, explosive, flammable, organic peroxide, oxidizer, pyrophoric, unstable (reactive), or water-reactive. Work Area: A room or defined space in a workplace where hazardous chemicals are produced or used and where employees are present.

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Workplace: An establishment, job site, or project, at one geographical location containing one or more work areas.

BASIC HAZCOM POLICIES FOR EMPLOYEES

(This information can be posted or provided to employees as general safety information about your HAZCOM plan)

1. Manufacturers The responsibility for keeping materials safe begins with manufacturers or importers who ship to the Company. According to the Hazard Communication Standard, producers and importers of substances, which are used in the workplace, must: • determine the physical and health hazards of their products, • put warning labels on the containers their products are packaged • give users of their products Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) which describe a

product, its hazards, and its safe use. 2. Employers Your employer is responsible for making sure you are protected from hazardous chemicals. We must: • tell you about the Hazard Communication Standard, and your right to know about the

chemicals with which you work. • write a Hazard Communication Plan, which describes how it will comply with the

Standard and inform you about how this plan is being put into effect. You can obtain a copy of the Hazard Communication Plan from your supervisor.

• teach you about the chemicals you work with, how to use them safely, and how to

read and understand labels and MSDSs. We will train you when you begin your new job and whenever you are assigned to a new work area in which you are exposed to chemicals you haven't encountered before. You will learn how to recognize the hazards of the substances you work with, how to protect yourself from those hazards, and how to respond to emergency situations.

• Before you begin working with a new material your supervisor must inform you

about the protective measures you'll need to take. • make sure that all chemicals are properly labeled and that you have access to MSDSs

for all of the substances you work with. MSDS binders are available at most work sites. If you are using hazardous materials and want to review the MSDS, look for the product's MSDS in the binder. If you can't find an MSDS at your work site, contact

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your supervisor for assistance in obtaining one. The supervisor will also tell you whenever the company receives a new or revised MSDS with new information about a substance you work with.

• make sure that workers use safe procedures at work sites where hazardous substances

are used. It is Company's legal responsibility to provide you with personal protective equipment and to make sure that the area you work in is as safe and secure as possible.

3. Employees As an employee, you have responsibility too. You are required to: • read labels and MSDSs for all materials you work with and follow the instructions

and warnings they contain. • follow established rules for using hazardous substances safely, • take part in Company training programs, and • practice personal hygiene CHEMICAL SAFETY ON THE JOB 1. Know the chemicals you work with Toxicity is the ability of a chemical substance or compound to cause injury once it reaches a susceptible site in or on the body. To understand the possible risks of working with toxic substances you need to know three things about them. A. How they can enter your body • The best protection against poisoning is to keep chemicals from entering your body -

if a chemical can't get into your body it can't harm you. Knowing the way a hazardous chemical can get into your body helps you take measures to keep it from doing so. Certain solvents, for example, can enter the body through the skin; so, if you are working with xylene-based compounds, you'll want to wear protective clothing and protective gloves.

There are three routes of exposure by which chemicals can enter your body: • Toxic fumes, vapors, and dust can enter through your nose, pass through your lungs,

enter your inhalation bloodstream, and circulate through your body. Breathing cigarette smoke while working with chemicals is especially dangerous. Many toxic substances can be absorption absorbed through exposed skin. Chemicals can also enter your body through cuts or wounds in your skin. If you eat, smoke, or accidentally touch your lip when there is a hazardous substance on your hand, the substance can enter your system through your mouth.

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B. What effects they could have on you • Sometimes the effect a chemical has on your body is immediate and severe. You may

suffer a burn, feel dizzy, develop a severe headache, or become unconscious. Effects such as these are called acute health effects and require emergency care and immediate medical attention.

• Other health effects occur gradually and are more difficult to diagnose. You might not

know a chemical's effect on you until the chemicals' level of toxicity in your body eventually makes you sick. For example, you may have difficulty breathing or develop a rash; or a medical condition you already have may become worse or more serious. Effects such as there are called chronic health effects. It is especially important for you to learn about chemicals which produce

chronic health effects because they could harm you without you knowing it at first. C. Where they will do the most damage • Chemicals are often classified according to the target organ or system that they affect

after they have entered the body. Substances, which damage the kidneys, for instance, are referred to as nephrotoxins. A classification of health hazards according to the target organ or system that they threaten should be identified.

• When your know the how, what, and where about a chemical before you begin

working with it you'll be more likely to treat it with respect and follow the recommended safety measures. You can find out the how, what, and where from the training that your supervisor gives you, from

this manual, from labels, and from MSDSs. 2. Make safe work procedures a habit. Whenever you are working with hazardous substances follow this list of general recommendations: A. Personal Hygiene • keep work areas and tools clean • wear recommended personal protective equipment • keep work clothing clean, inspect regularly for holes or tears, and never mix it with

your home laundry • when working with chemicals, never wear sandals, shorts, or other clothing in which

your skin will be exposed • remove all jewelry before you begin working • don't wear contact lenses when you are working in an area where there might be

chemical vapors • never deliberately smell or taste a hazardous chemical • wash your hands often, especially before you apply makeup or lotion; before you

smoke, eat or drink and after you have completed your work • smoke, eat, or drink in designated areas only

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B. Procedures • read warning signs, labels, and MSDSs for substances you work with before you

begin working • plan your work in advance and know what you will do in case of a spill, fire, or

exposure to a hazardous chemical • strictly follow the rules established by your supervisor • don't take shortcuts • never work alone • stay alert • watch for hazards and signs of trouble such as unusual sounds or odors (NOTE: odor is an unreliable way to check for the presence of a chemical. The sense of smell gets tired quickly, causing you to be unaware of a substance's presence. Also, some dangerous chemicals are odorless.) • never perform a task you aren't authorized to perform • don't use mouth suction to fill a pipette - use a pipette bulb or other pipette filling

device • use the smallest amount of hazardous material possible • use hazardous materials only as directed and for their intended purpose • make sure your work area is ventilated adequately • be especially careful when moving containers • check that hoses and containers are not leaking • keep containers closed when you aren't using them C. Storage and Cleanup • close lids and caps tightly before storing containers • don't store chemicals in alphabetical order. Doing so might place chemicals together

that shouldn't be next to each other. Separate according to their hazard classes before alphabetizing them.

• don't store flammable and combustible materials near sources of heat • don't store liquids above eye level • store especially hazardous substances like carcinogens in secondary containers (one

inside the other) • follow proper safety rules for disposing of chemicals and contaminated materials. 3. Find out what protective equipment you need and use it. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is equipment you wear to block a hazardous chemical's route of entry into your body. In some cases administrative controls may be placed on the way you work with a substance; a non-hazardous or less hazardous material may be substituted for a hazardous

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one, or a work rotation schedule may be instituted that limits each worker's exposure. In other cases, engineering controls such as ventilation, exhaust fans, blowers, tank lids, and fume hoods may be implemented to protect you. But when administrative and engineering controls don't protect you sufficiently from hazards, you should use personal protective equipment MSDSs for the substances you work with will tell you what equipment you should use. The following is a list of commonly used personal protective equipment: • Skin Protection: chemical-resistant gloves, boots, full-body protective suits, hoods,

face and neck shields, caps • The coating on the PPE and its thickness will be determined by the substance's ability

to penetrate it. When you are working with corrosives make sure PPE is in good condition and that there are no tears or pinholes in it. You can use lab coats, coveralls, or aprons that stay at the work site when you work with non-corrosive chemicals.

• Eye Protection: safety glasses, splash goggles, face shields. Safety glasses protect you from dust and flying objects. Splash goggles protect you from spray and mist. Use face shields together with glasses or goggles

• Nose Protection: dust respirators, vapor respirators, atmosphere-supplying respirators • Dust respirators take particles out of the air and should be worn around corrosive or

metal dusts. Vapor respirators protect you from toxic gases. • Atmosphere-supplying respirators give you a safe supply of oxygen when you are

working in contaminated air. Always make sure the respirator you are using fits properly before entering the workplace and be alert for signs that the respirator is failing such as clogging or the breakthrough of an odor. NOTE: Use of respiratory protective equipment requires approval and training from your supervisor.

• Mouth Protection: masks. Poisoning by mouth usually results form poor personal hygiene.

4. Know what to do in an emergency A. The best way to be sure you will respond adequately to an emergency is to prepare yourself. Before you begin working at your job you should learn what to do in case of an emergency. You should know: • phone numbers to call in case of fires, spills, and accidents • where showers and eyewash stations are • where alarms are and how to use them • where emergency exits are • where fire extinguishers are • how to shut down equipment • how to clean up spills and how to use cleanup equipment • what to do in case of fires - how to get out of the building, what extinguishers to use,

etc. • what first-aid techniques to employ

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PURCHASING DEPARTMENT Specific rules relating to the purchase of chemicals is required. This provides a control

on the acquisition of hazardous chemicals to assure inventories are commensurate with

normal consumption rates and stocks are not stored beyond their useable or safe shelf

life. The purchasing procedures should include a current inventory of all chemicals,

storage regulations and disposal procedures. The Purchasing Department should ensure

that all chemicals purchased are provided with MSDS’s and assist in obtaining MSDS’s

when not supplied with chemicals. In some organizations, the Purchasing Department is

responsible for developing a proper storage plan, even though the warehousing

department would actually carry out the plan. The storage plan should include proper

storage according to their classifications to keep incompatible materials separated.

Flammables, oxidizers, corrosives and toxics should be stored in separate locations.

Acids and bases are both corrosive, but react violently when mixed together. Smaller

quantities of flammable and combustible materials should be stored in approved

flammable storage cabinets.

DEPARTMENT SUPERVISORS/MANAGERS

Supervisors and managers are responsible for all hazardous chemicals used within their

area of operation. This includes hazardous chemical handling, labeling, storage,

transportation and disposal. A chemical inventory must be maintained. MSDS’s must be

on hand and readily accessible to all employees. Personal protective equipment and

engineering controls must be available and used. Department level training should be

conducted and documented. Hands on instruction is particularly valuable at the

department level. The supervisor should ensure that all accidents, incidents or exposures

involving hazardous chemicals are reported to the HAZCOM Coordinator and respective

chains of command as required.

HAZCOM COORDINATOR The coordinator is the person responsible for coordinating the program. Note we said,

“coordinate”. Supervisors and managers are responsible for implementing and

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maintaining the program. Duties of the coordinator may include providing technical

assistance and advice to supervisors and employees regarding the safe chemical handling,

storage and disposal practices. The coordinator may provide training and information for

new employees. Duties also include the compilation and maintenance of a master

hazardous chemical inventory, which is up to date and current. The coordinator

maintains a library of chemical health and safety information and maintains a master

MSDS file for chemicals on the inventory. The coordinator reviews and updates the

Written Program as necessary.

TRAINING Many organizations assign the responsibility of training new employees to the HR

department. In such cases, procedures for training new employees in Hazard

Communications must be developed and coordinated by the responsible HR or Safety

Department.

The written plan must contain detailed information on training and includes written

designation of the persons responsible for conducting training. The plan requires that the

format of the training be listed, such as workshops, seminars, videos or other formats. For as long as the HAZCOM standard has been in existence, there still is some doubt or

misunderstanding of what training, documentation and information is required for the

Hazard Communications program. First, employees must be trained at the time of your

initial employment or assignment and whenever a new hazard is introduced into the

workplace. Employees should be trained and made aware of what is required by the

hazcom standard, such as labels, MSDS, the written program, potential hazards and other

general information. One thing that should be taught and fully understood by employees

is that mixing chemicals without proper training and authorization is very hazardous. If

you get the wrong mix of chemicals, you could be changing the physical or health

characteristics. You could take two chemicals that when used individually, they are

relatively safe. However, when you mix the two together, you could form a very

dangerous or hazardous mixture. Don’t mix chemicals unless you’ve been trained and

authorized by your employer. Employees must be informed of any operations in the

work area where hazardous chemicals are present. Employees must be informed of the

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location and availability of the company’s written program. Employees must know the

location and availability of the MSDS files. The training should include the observations

methods used to detect the presence or release of hazardous chemicals in the work place.

What we mean by observation methods is whether there are testing methods, air sampling

or other methods. How do you know if hazardous chemicals are present or if the air is

safe to breathe? Employees must be trained in the physical and health hazards of

chemicals. Employees exposed to health hazards must be apprised of both changes in

body functions and the signs and symptoms that may occur to signal those changes.

It is not necessary that the employer provide training on each specific chemical. Training

may be conducted by categories of hazard, such as carcinogens, sensitizes, that is or may

be encountered by the employee during the course of his or her duties. In the case of

temporary employees, the host employer has the responsibility with the temporary

agency. A frequently overlooked portion of the training provisions is dealing with

emergency procedures. If a chemical were very hazardous, more information would be

expected to be provided on the MSDS and emergency procedures. Training should

include measures of protection, what action should employees take to control the

emergency or not control the emergency and related information. In situations where

employees are expected to moderate or control the impact of the emergency, then

additional emergency responder training would be required. In this case, an

understanding of what hazardous substances are and the risks associated with them in an

incident. An understanding of the potential outcomes associated with an emergency

created when hazardous substances are present. They should be able to recognize the

presence of hazardous substances in an emergency. The first responder should be trained

to realize the need for additional resources and how to make appropriate notifications

when such action is necessary.

All of the elements of a training program should be listed in the written plan. Procedures

must be developed to make sure new employees are trained, experienced employees

receive periodic and updated training as necessary. Employees must be trained when a

new hazard is introduced into the workplace. Proper documentation includes, who was

trained, how they were trained, what information was taught and verification that the

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student learned the information that was taught. Written methods to ensure employees are

informed of hazards of non-routine tasks and such information as unlabeled piping.

There must be written policies and procedures to ensure that anyone working on your

site, such as subcontractors or service representatives, are informed any hazardous

materials to which they may be exposed and provide them with appropriate MSDS. Your

written program should also explain the procedures if subcontractors come on your site

for work and they bring chemicals or hazardous materials with them. They should

provide you with their written HAZCOM Plan and documentation as well.

EMERGENCIES Another important part of the written plan is emergencies. If employees are not properly

trained to react to emergency spills, how can you expect them to react to spills, leaks and

other emergencies? Safety procedures are required for different types of chemicals,

location and types of cleaning supplies required, PPE requirements and other

information. Written procedures should include alarm systems, rescue information and

evacuation procedures. Specific procedures for first aid treatment of overexposure to

chemicals are part of the plan. Basically all information and procedures that are needed

by employees in all aspects of handling, storing, using, transporting and disposing of

hazardous chemicals and what to do in case of an emergency should be included in the

written HAZCOM plan. Nothing should be left to chance.

Waste minimization and substitution of chemicals for less hazardous chemicals should

also be part of the written plan. This is not necessarily a requirement of the HAZCOM

Standard, but it makes sense to add additional topics to written policies that relate to

chemicals and hazardous materials.

DETERMINING THE HAZARDS OF

CHEMICALS PHYSICAL HAZARDS. Certain chemicals due to their physical properties exhibit

PHYSICAL HAZARDS, including flammability, reactivity and other properties.

Physical hazard chemicals fall in the following classes:

Flammable liquids or solids

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Combustible liquids

Explosives

Organic peroxide

Oxidizers

Pyrophoric materials. These are materials that may ignite spontaneously in air at

temperatures above 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

Unstable materials

Water reactive materials.

HEALTH HAZARD chemicals are those that may cause acute or chronic health effects

after exposure. It can be an obvious effect, such as immediate death from inhaling a

deadly chemical. A health hazard may not necessarily cause immediate or obvious harm

to you, or even make you sick. In fact, you may not see, feel or smell the danger. An

ACUTE health effect usually occurs rapidly, following a brief exposure. A chronic

health effect is long, continuous and follows repeated long term exposure. As an example

of what kinds of chemicals cause health hazards, the list includes CARCINOGENS or

cancer causing chemicals. An example could be formaldehyde or benzene. TOXIC

AGENTS could include lawn or garden insecticides. IRRITANTS may include

chemicals such as ammonia or bleach. CORROSIVES are caustic sodas or battery acid.

That’s not the entire list, but it provides an idea of different types and kinds of chemicals.

TROUBLING CHEMICALS SHOCK SENSITIVE MATERIALS The following materials are shock-sensitive, and may decompose violently if struck or heated. Solids are also prone to explosive decomposition if ground, for example with pestle and mortar. A few of the materials listed are not, of themselves, explosive, but mixtures of them with combustible material such as organic reagents, may be dangerous. acetylides aluminum ophorite explosive amatol

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ammonal ammonium nitrate ammonium perchlorate ammonium picrate butyl tetryl calcium nitrate copper acetylide cyanuric triazide cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine dinitroethyleneurea dinitroglycerine dinitrophenol dinitrophenolates dinitrophenyl hydrazine dinitrotoluene dipicrylamine dipicryl sulfone erythritol tetranitrate fulminate of silver fulminating gold fulminating platinum gelatinized nitrocellulose guanyl nitrosamino guanyltetrazene guanyl nitrosamino guanylidene guanylidene hydrazine hydrazoic acid heavy metal azide hexanite hexanitrodiphenylamine hexanitrostilbene hexogen hyrazinium nitrate lead azide, mannite, mononitroresorcinate, picrate, styphnate magnesium ophorite mannitol hexanitrate mercury oxalate, fulminate, tartrate nitrated carbohydrate nitrated glucoside nitrogen triiodide, trichloride nitroglycerin nitroglycide nitroglycol nitroguanidine nitronium perchlorate nitroparaffins

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nitrotoluene nitrourea organic nitramines picramic acid picramide picric acid picryl chloride picryl fluoride organic amine nitrates organic peroxides potassium nitroaminotetrazole robenzoic acid silver acetylide, azide, fulminate, styphnate, tetrazene sodatol sodium amatol, dinitro-ortho-cresolate, picramate, syphnic acid tetranitrocarbazole tetraze tetrytol trinitroanisole trinitrobenzene trinit trimonite trinitronaphthalene trinitrophenetol trinitrotoluene urea nitrate OXIDIZING MATERIALS Oxidizers are compounds which are capable of reacting with and oxidizing (i.e., giving off oxygen) other materials. A well known example of oxidation is the process we know as corrosion, where the metal reacts with air to form the metal oxides referred to as "rust". The primary hazard associated with this class of compounds lies in their ability to act as an oxygen source, and thus to readily stimulate the combustion of organic materials. As you may recall, it takes three components for a fire to happen - a fuel source (usually an organic compound, such as paper), an ignition source (such as a flame, a spark, friction, etc.) and an oxygen source (in this case - a cylinder of OXYGEN, a strong oxidizer). Identifying Oxidizing Materials 1. Chemical structures which should serve as a warning sign. Because of their chemical structure, these materials have excess oxygen which may be liberated, especially at higher temperatures. This capacity to provide excess oxygen at elevated

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temperatures makes these chemicals a fire and explosion hazard when they come in contact with all forms of combustibles (wood, paper, textiles, plastics, etc.). In addition, mixtures of oxidizers and combustibles can be ignited by a heat energy originating from a weak ignition source such as friction, physical impact or static electricity. Particular caution is required when working with or storing strong oxidizers (see below classifications) because these compounds are capable of reacting with combustibles at room temperature. The result of any of the above contacts can be fire and/or explosion. Typical oxidizers include chemicals with the oxygen-containing groups listed in the following table. TABLE 1 - Common Oxidizing Groups Chemical Group Chemical Formula peroxides O2-2 nitrates NO3- nitrites NO2- perchlorates ClO4- chlorates ClO3- chlorites ClO2- hypochlorites ClO- dichromates Cr2O7-2 permanganates MnO4- persulfates S2O8-2 2. Using chemical labels as an aid in identifying the chemicals which pose a hazard in the laboratory, all chemical manufacturers are required to include relevant information on the chemical label. One of the most common grading systems is that developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In this system, chemicals are rated from 0 (no hazard) to 4 (extreme hazard). It is important for all laboratory personnel to recognize and become familiar with the NFPA diamond and understand the grading levels established by the NFPA for hazardous materials. The white portion of the diamond gives an indication of hazardous properties of the material other than those associated with toxicity (blue portion), flammability (red portion) and reactivity (yellow portion). Commonly displayed warnings in this portion of the diamond include an alert as to corrosivity, radioactivity, water reactivity and strong oxidizing strength.

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Another warning system that indicates to the user that a material is an oxidizer is that devised by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The "burning O" is the standard symbol required to be used on all packages offered for transport over public highways, airways or by sea, which carry materials classified by the DOT as strong oxidizers. Proper Storage and Handling of Oxidizing Materials The primary consideration in the storage of these materials is that they must be isolated from all flammable or combustible material. No other special requirements are necessary for storing small quantities (less than 200 pounds) of Class 1, 2 or 3 oxidizers. Stringent storage requirements are levied against Class 4 oxidizers in quantities greater in 10 pounds (combined, all Class 4 materials). These materials may not be stored, for quantities above 10 pounds, inside buildings. Remember These Things About Oxidizing Agents • the primary hazard is the ability to act as an oxygen source, especially hazardous

during fire situation. • these materials present a fire and explosion hazard when in contact with organic or

combustible materials. All contact with organic or combustible material must be avoided.

• they are generally corrosive. MATERIALS LIABLE TO FORM PEROXIDES IN STORAGE The following materials may form peroxides in storage, when in contact with air. Once a container is opened, the chemical should be tested for peroxides not less frequently than once every six months. • Aldehydes • Ethers, especially cyclic ethers and those containing primary and secondary alcohol

groups • Compounds containing benzylic hydrogen atoms (particularly if the hydrogens are on

tertiary carbon atoms) • Compounds containing the allylic structure, including most alkenes. • Vinyl and vinylidene compounds. Among the more widely-used compounds which may form peroxides in storage are: • Acetal • Cumene • Cyclohexene • Cyclooctene • Decahydronaphthalene • Decalin

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• Diacetylene • Dicyclopentadiene • diethyl ether • diethylene glycol • diisopropyl ether • dimethyl ether • dioxane • divinyl acetylene • ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (glyme) • isopropyl ether • methyl acetylene • sodium amide • tetrahydrofuran (THF) • tetrahydronaphthalene • tetralin • vinyl acetate • vinylidene chloride

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET The MSDS information is also included in the written plan. This section covers how the

Material Safety Data Sheet requirements are being met and to make sure you have a

MSDS on every chemical in your facility, which is available to all employees. The plan

must designate in writing, the persons responsible for obtaining and maintaining the

Material Safety Data Sheets. Included in the procedures are how the data sheets are to be

maintained, such as in notebooks, electronically or if you have different worksites, where

the MSDS will be stored. There must be procedures on how to retrieve the MSDS

electronically and how employees can obtain access to the MSDS’s. The written plan

must contain procedures to follow when the MSDS is not received at the time of the first

shipment and how to obtain the missing MSDS.

If you’re experienced, you should know quite a bit about MSDS or Material Data Sheets.

MSDS’s are factual information sheets that relate to chemicals. The manufacturer is

required to provide the required information and each employer is required to maintain

these MSDS on file. Anyone who uses the chemical may then ask to see the MSDS to

determine information that may not be provided on the labels. The employer may have

all the MSDS information on an electronic database. The primary requirement is the

MSDS must be readily accessible. If the company uses computers, a printer should be

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available to provide employees with a hard copy from which to read the information,

particularly in a medical or emergency situation. Transmission of the MSDS information

orally by telephone is not acceptable.

To be realistic, the information on the MSDS is technical in nature, which may or may

not be useful to users of the chemicals. Much of the MSDS information is used by

engineers, safety managers and others to determine the actual hazard of the chemical and

develop policies, and procedures for the safe use, handling, storing and disposing of the

chemical. The MSDS also provides information on what type of personal protective

equipment is necessary and first aid procedures to take in case of exposure. When

training employees in MSDS, it is not sufficient just to have them read the information on

the MSDS. Training must be provided and it must be delivered in the language spoken

by the employee. Documentation of the employee understanding the training is also

required. Some organizations have trade secrets, so they don’t want too much chemical

information exposed on MSDS. Even if a chemical is a claimed trade secret, the

following minimum information is required on the MSDS. The PEL or Permissible

Exposure Limit and the TLV or the Threshold Limit Value or other designated limits

must be listed.

LABELS AND LABELING Manufacturers are required to label all hazardous materials with the following items:

• Name and address of the responsible party.

• Identity of the hazardous chemicals.

• Appropriate hazard warnings.

• MSDS’s should be used to verify the information on labels.

• Labels should not be defaced or removed as long as the container holds material.

• Repacking or transferring to smaller containers require the new containers to be

properly labeled.

In this section of the written plan, persons responsible for ensuring labeling of in-plant

containers must be identified. Includes persons responsible for ensuring labels on

shipped containers. The labeling system used must be described in the written plan.

There must be a written plan relating to alternatives to labeling of in-plant containers, if

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your organization is using a different labeling system. There must be written procedures

for reviewing and updating label information when necessary.

Containers of hazardous chemicals must be labeled in English. Generally, where there are

non-English speaking personnel, the label should be in that language or languages also.

Labels must contain the following information:

• Identity of the hazardous chemical

• Appropriate hazard warnings

• Name and address of the chemical manufacturer, importer or other responsible party.

• You may use signs, placards, symbols, batch tickets or printed operating procedures

in place of labels on individual containers, as long as the meaning is fully understood

by the people using the chemicals.

Where the chemical is intended only for the use of the employee making the chemical

transfer, labels may not be required. This means the container must be used only by that

person and must be used only during the work shift. If the container is to be used on

another shift or by another person, then a label is required.

Some common labeling terms include combustible, flammable, corrosive, irritating and

toxic. There are several systems and standards for labeling chemicals, but there is not a

uniformly accepted system to date. Each system and standard has advantages and

limitations. The ANSI, or American National Standards Institute Z129.1 has a

precautionary label containing the name of the chemical, a signal word, such as warning

or danger and the key hazard, such as flammable or vapor harmful. A statement of

precautions to avoid the hazard is also included.

NFPA 704 is another labeling system, which is a color-coded system. It uses a color

coded diamond with four quadrants, in which numbers are used in the upper three

quadrants to signal the degree of emergency health hazard which is blue, the fire hazard

which is red and the reactivity hazard color coded yellow. The bottom quadrant is used

to indicate water reactivity, radioactivity, biohazards and other special hazards. The

emergency hazards are based upon a numerical scale of 0 to 4. Zero having no unusual

hazard, 1 equates to a minor hazard, 2 as moderate, 3 as severe hazard and a 4 rating is an

extreme hazard. The NFPA diamond is used primarily by emergency response personnel

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and does not adequately signal occupational hazards. The NFPA system is good for

alerting personnel the degree of hazard of the chemical and is helpful in drawing attention

to storage needs and emergency equipment requirements.

The DOT or Department of Transportation labeling system uses a color-coded diamond

in where there is a symbol and a term describing the major hazard of the material. The

DOT system is used for the transportation of hazardous materials.

HMIS or Hazardous Materials Information System is one of the most popular systems for

labeling containers. It uses standard labels to communicate hazards through the use of

colors, numbers, and letters of the alphabet and symbols.

UNDERSTANDING PESTICIDE LABELS Every pesticide purchased today, regardless of whether it controls insects, weeds, or diseases has a label with instructions on how to safely use the product. Some labels are easy to understand, others leave you feeling like you're alone cutting through political red tape. The label means different things depending upon your point of view. The label is a "license to sell" to the manufacturer. To the state or federal government, the label is a way to control the distribution, storage, sale, use, and disposal of the product. To the buyer or user, the label is a source of facts on how to use the product correctly and legally. To physicians, the label is a source of information on proper treatment for poisoning cases. All labels must contain certain information. Each item will be addressed individually. First is the brand, trade, or product name. Every manufacturer has a brand name for its product. Different manufacturers use different brand names for products containing the same active ingredient. Most companies will register brand names as a trademark which restrict other companies from using that name. The brand or trade name is the one used in ads and by company salespeople, it also shows up plainly on the front panel of the label. An example of how a brand name can become associated with a product can be seen with facial tissue. Many of us commonly refer to facial tissues as Kleenex's. Kleenex is the brand name. Jell-O is another such example. In the world of herbicides, Kleenup (an Ortho product) and Roundup (a Monsanto product) have the same active ingredient and thus perform the same job. It is critical not to be caught purchasing and using a product by brand name alone. Some companies use the same basic name with only slight variations to designate entirely different pesticide chemicals. It is much more reliable to purchase a product based on its common name. A common name is a shortened, simpler version of the complex chemical name. These are included in the ingredient statement on the label. Only common names which are officially

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accepted by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency may be used in the ingredient statement of the pesticide label. The chemical name is the complex name which identifies the chemical components and structure of the pesticide. For many of us without a chemistry background, all they represent is a challenge in pronunciation. The chemical name is also listed in the ingredient statement. The other requirements of the ingredient statement is to include the amount (in percentage) of each ingredient listed. Inert ingredients need not be named, however, the percentage of the total contents they comprise must be shown. On the front panel of the pesticide label is a statement indicating the type of pesticide and general terms of what the product will control. It is important to remember that the term pesticide is a broad umbrella under which insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and algicides fall. Insecticides control insects, fungicides control diseases, herbicides control tree, brush, and weed growth, algicides control the growth of algae. A pesticide is limited in what it will successfully control. Thus carbaryl, an insecticide will control certain insects, but will not control plant diseases or weeds. The front label also includes the net contents. This can be expressed in pounds, or ounces for dry formulations, and as gallons, quarts, or pints for liquids. Liquid formulations may also list the pounds of active ingredient per gallon of product. Law requires the maker or distributor of a product to put the name and address of the company on the label. This is so you will know who made or sold the product. Registration and establishment numbers are used in case of accidental poisoning, claims of misuse, or liability claims. An EPA registration number appears on most pesticide labels. This is an indication that the pesticide label has been approved by the federal government. In some situations, a pesticide may be used where a special local need (SLN) arises. This product's usage would only be allowed where that product is registered. An establishment number identifies the facility that produced the product. In instances where problems occur, the facility that made the product can be traced. Signal words and symbols used on the label are important clues in recognizing how potentially dangerous the product is to humans. The signal word must appear in large letters on the front panel of the pesticide immediately following "Keep Out of Reach of Children" which must appear on every pesticide label. DANGER signals that the pesticide is highly toxic. A taste to a teaspoonful taken by mouth could kill an average sized adult. Any product which is highly toxic orally, dermally, or through inhalation or causes severe eye and skin burning will be labeled "DANGER." In addition, all pesticides which are highly toxic orally, dermally, or through inhalation will also carry the word "POISON" printed in red and the skull and crossbones symbol. WARNING signals that the product is moderately toxic. As little as a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful by mouth could kill the average sized adult. Any product which is moderately toxic orally, dermally, or through inhalation or causes moderate eye and skin irritation will be labeled

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"WARNING." CAUTION signals that the product is slightly toxic. An ounce to more than a pint taken by mouth could kill the average adult. Any product which is slightly toxic orally, dermally, or through inhalation or causes slight eye and skin irritation will be labeled "CAUTION." Other precautionary statements are included on pesticide labels to help you decide the proper steps to take to protect yourself, your helpers, and other persons (or domestic animals) which may be exposed. These statements are sometimes listed under the heading "Hazards to Humans and Domestic Animals." They are composed of several sections and many are self explanatory. Statements which immediately follow the signal word, either on the front or side of the pesticide label, indicate which route or routes of entry (mouth, skin, lungs) you must particularly protect. Many pesticide products are hazardous by more than one route. Typical DANGER label statements include: Fatal if swallowed, Poisonous if inhaled, Extremely hazardous by skin contact--rapidly absorbed through skin, Corrosive--causes eye damage and severe skin burns. The statements are not uniform on all labels, and many variations may be found. A single label can have several precautions stated. Typical WARNING label statements include: Harmful or fatal if swallowed, Harmful or fatal if absorbed through the skin, Harmful or fatal if inhaled, Causes skin and eye irritation. Typical CAUTION label statements include: Harmful if swallowed, May be harmful if absorbed through the skin, May be harmful if inhaled, May irritate eyes, nose, throat, and skin. CAUTION statements are usually more moderate and warnings are qualified with "may" or "may be" thus keeping with the lower toxicity levels of products possessing a CAUTION label. Following the Route of Entry statements are the Specific Action statements. They tell the consumer the specific action that should be taken to prevent poisoning accidents. The

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statements are related to the toxicity of the pesticide product (signal word) and the route or routes of entry which must be particularly protected. Do not breathe vapors or spray mist, avoid contact with skin or clothing are common specific action statements which help prevent pesticide poisoning. Protective Clothing and Equipment statements are listed on many pesticides and should be followed closely. In spite of the fact that some labels do not contain these statements, this doesn't mean that protection isn't necessary. Long-sleeved shirts, long-legged trousers, and gloves should be worn when applying all pesticides. The Statement of Practical Treatment gives the recommended first aid treatment in case of accidental poisoning. All DANGER and some WARNING and CAUTION labels contain a note to physicians describing the appropriate medical procedures for poisoning emergencies and may identify an antidote. The Environmental Hazards statement warns of potential hazards to the environment. Read closely for special warning statements. Special Toxicity statements warn of potential hazards to wildlife, insects, or aquatic organisms. These statements help us choose the safest product for a particular job. General Environmental statements appear on almost every pesticide label. They are reminders to use common sense to avoid contaminating the environment. Physical or Chemical Hazards statements tell of special fire, explosion, or chemical hazards the product may pose. The Classification statement indicates whether the EPA has classified the pesticide as a "general" or "restricted" use pesticide. Just because a product is a "general" use pesticide, doesn't mean that the product has a low hazard level. Use the signal words and precautionary statements to judge the toxicity hazard of the pesticide. Some pesticide labels with the signal word "DANGER" or "WARNING" contain a Reentry statement. This statement tells how much time must pass before people can reenter a treated area without appropriate protective clothing. These reentry intervals are set by both EPA and some states. In many cases reentry intervals set by states are not listed on the label. It is the responsibility of the consumer to determine if one has been set. The reentry statement may be printed in a box under the heading "Reentry" or it may be in a separate section with a title such as "Important," "Note," or "General Information." If no reentry statement appears on the label, then sprays must be dry or dusts must be settled before reentering or allowing others to reenter a treated area without protective clothing. That is the minimum legal reentry interval. The Ortho Weed-B-Gone Weed Killer label contains no reentry statement; however, minimum reentry tells us we must wait until the spray dries before reentering the treated area ourselves or allowing others including pets in the treated area. All pesticide labels contain general instructions for the appropriate Storage and Disposal of the pesticide and its container. State and local laws vary considerably so specific instructions are usually not included. Directions for Use is probably the most important part of the label. This is the part of the label that tells you, the consumer, how to use the product. It gives information about the pests the product claims to control; the crop, animal, or site the product is intended to

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protect; the form in which the product should be applied; the proper equipment to be used; how much to use; mixing directions; compatibility with other often-used products; phytotoxicity; other possible injury or staining problems; as well as where and when the material should be applied. Additional information includes the least number of days which must pass between the last pesticide application and harvest of crops. This is known as the pre-harvest interval (PHI). This interval is set by EPA to allow time for the pesticide to break down in the environment which prevents illegal residues on food, feed, or animal products and possible poisoning of grazing animals. The important message I'm trying to get across is READ THE LABEL. Read it before you purchase the pesticide, before you mix the pesticide, before you apply the pesticide, and before you store or dispose of the pesticide. Another important message is Understand What You Are Reading and ask questions if you don't. The only dumb question is the one, which is not asked! Also included on all pesticide labels is the notice that states the buyer assumes all responsibility for safety and use not in accordance with directions. So, if a salesperson sells you a non- selective herbicide product to control a few broadleaf weeds in your yard and you apply the product to the entire lawn without reading the label, don't be angry with the salesperson when your entire yard is dead. It's you who didn't read and understand the label!!!

NFPA (NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION) LABELING SYSTEM Hazardous materials should always be properly labeled. One common type of label is the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) system. Although they look rather simplistic, an NFPA label carries a lot of information for those who understand how to interpret it. For example, NFPA labels are color-coded. Each color on the label represents a different type of hazard. Example Blue = Health hazard Red = Fire hazard Yellow = Reactivity hazard White = Special hazard What these colors represent must be remembered first. On top of the color coding. NFPA also uses a numbering system. On every NFPA label, there should be a number from zero to four inside the blue, red and yellow areas. The numbers indicate the degree of a particular hazard.

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0 = minimal hazard 1 = slight hazard 2 = moderate hazard 3= serious hazard 4= severe hazard The Blue Section - Health Risks 4 The substance is a severe health risk if the substance is not handled safely. Substances carrying a four in the blue section could cause death or irreversible injury. 3 The substance could cause serious temporary or irreversible injury. 2 The substance could cause temporary incapacitation. 1 The substance could cause irritation 0 There is no health hazard. The Red Section - Fire risks 4 A flammable vapor or gas which burns readily. 3 A flammable liquid or solid which can be readily ignited. 2 The substance must be heated for ignition. 1 The substance must be preheated before ignition can occur. 0 There is no fire hazard. The Yellow Section - Reactivity Hazards 4 The substance is readily capable of detonation or explosive reaction. 3 The substance may detonate when exposed to heat or an ignition source. 2 The substance is readily capable of non-explosive reaction. 1 The substance may become unstable at high temperatures. 0 The substance is stable The White Section- Special Hazards OX Oxidizer ACID Acid ALK Alkali COR Corrosive Use no water Radioactive Regardless of the numbers on the label - even if they carry ones or zeros, be cautious. All chemicals should be treated with the utmost of care. Users must also have the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) on hand for all chemicals they use. The MSDSs contain detailed information on :

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* Name & trade name of the substance * Hazardous ingredient(s) it contains * Physical characteristics of the chemical * Protective equipment to be used * What to do in event of a leak of spill * Any other precautions to be followed

DOCUMENTATION Documentation of training is also of great importance. Here is a simple test to see if

you’re properly documenting training. Go back to training that was conducted five years

ago and determine the following elements:

• Name of the student, date of training

• What specific information was taught? If it were a video or CD interactive, do you

still have a copy of the program? If it were a stand up lecture, the lesson plan should

be available for review.

• Who was the instructor and what was his or her qualifications to teach the course

• Explain how you can tell if the students in this training fully understood what was

taught. This can be in the form of written questions and answers or other similar

means. This simple test will tell you if you are properly documenting your training.

SHIPPING AND RECEIVING Shipping and receiving chemicals and hazardous materials may be the job of only the

shippers and receivers, but it’s important for all personnel who uses or works with

chemicals to understand the process. When receiving chemicals, proper paperwork such

as the bill of lading and other identifying information must accompany the chemical. The

chemical must be properly labeled. An MSDS must be provided for each chemical

received. Without proper paperwork, documentation, labeling and MSDS, the chemical

should not be received until such time as it is provided. The same basically applies to a

person who uses the chemical. Is it properly labeled? Do you know where the MSDS is

located? Are you familiar with this chemical and if not, where do you go for proper

training and assistance? Receiving a chemical is more than just a warehouse receiver

unloading it from a truck. Proper procedures apply to everyone.

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If you’re shipping hazardous materials, you really must be properly trained. Let’s ask a

few questions and see if you know the answer:

1. Can a hazardous material be shipped by the US Postal Service?

2. Can UPS or FEDEX ship hazardous materials?

3. How do you ship a can of flammable paint from California to New York?

4. Where do you find the information that provides the guidelines for shipping

hazardous materials?

Well, how did you do on the quiz? The US Postal Service does not allow hazardous

materials to be transported. UPS and FEDEX have special programs, but you have to

contact them for the specific shipment rules. You can ship a can of flammable paint

through an authorized trucking company that is allowed to transport hazardous materials.

The rules for shipping hazardous materials is found in the Code of Federal Regulations

or CFR 49, part 100 to 185. What all this means is there are specific rules and standards

for everything that relate to chemicals. You may not be a shipper or receiver of

hazardous materials or chemicals, but the point is chemicals and hazardous materials

require your attention. It requires you to read and follow the directions and information

printed on the labels. It requires you to know and read the Material Safety Data Sheet

for each chemical you use. If you’re not sure about something, be sure and ask your

supervisor. Don’t take chances when it comes to your health and safety.

CONSUMER PRODUCTS AND EXEMPTIONS Exemptions to the labeling requirement include Pesticides, Food, drugs, cosmetics,

Distilled spirits and Consumer products labeled in accordance with the Consumer

Product Safety Act. These particular chemicals are covered by other standards.

Additional products exempted from the Hazard Communications Standard include:

• Hazardous waste

• Tobacco

• Wood or wood products (but not wood dust)

• Drugs, food, cosmetics for personal consumption

• Consumer products, used in the same manner and resulting in the same frequency and

duration of exposure, as a consumer

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• Ionizing and non-ionizing radiation

• Biological hazards.

Let’s explain a bit more about the consumer product exemption because these products

may actually be used in the workplace. The consumer products exempted are those

normally found in supermarkets and other consumer outlets. Examples are bleach,

ammonia, cleaners, polish and other similar products. If you have the same use and

exposure as a normal consumer, then these products are exempted under the Hazard

Communication Standard. If you’re purchasing 100 barrels of bleach, then don’t expect

that large a quantity of a consumer product to be exempt.

PERSONAL PROTECTION The HAZCOM Written Plan should have specific rules and procedures on personal

protective equipment. The company must have an assessment of all hazards in the

workplace. After the hazards have been identified or assessed, proper safeguards should

be instituted to reduce these hazards. This protection can come in the form of

engineering controls or personal protective equipment. Some chemicals may require the

use of rubber gloves, safety glasses, face shields, goggles, rubber aprons, and special

footwear or even respirators. Whenever the company requires personal protection, then

it’s up to the individual to wear it. When PPE is required, it’s not a choice. It’s

mandatory to protect the health of the individual who may be exposed to potential health

hazards. For persons who are required to wear personal protective equipment, such as

respirators, then specific training must be provided.

Personal Protective Equipment is an integral part of any safety program. Certainly, it

would be much better if all hazards could be eliminated through engineering controls,

but that’s not realistic. PPE is here to stay and it takes everyone’s effort to wear the

proper equipment, when it’s required.

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HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM

SAMPLE HAZCOM INTRODUCTION:

All employees have a right to know what hazardous chemicals they are using, how those chemicals may affect their health, the precautions needed when working with hazardous chemicals and emergency procedures to take in case of contact. In order to assure that our employees are provided with this information, we have developed this Hazard Communication Program. We intend to provide information about chemical hazards and the control of those hazards via this comprehensive program, which includes container labeling, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS's) and employee training. The following outlines how we will accomplish this plan:

1. CONTAINER LABELING It is the policy of this organization is that no container of hazardous chemicals will be released for use until the following label information is verified:

• Containers are clearly labeled as to contents. • Appropriate hazard warnings are noted. • The name and address of the manufacturer is listed.

To further ensure that employees are aware of the chemical hazards of materials used in their work areas it is our policy to label all secondary containers. Secondary containers will be labeled with either an extra copy of the original manufacturer's label, or with generic labels which have a block for identity and blocks for the hazard warning. This responsibility is assigned to the supervisor of each work area and/or shift. The Manager of each department will ensure that all hazardous chemicals that are used, or planed to be used, in a work area are identified. This involves review of the container labels and Material Safety Data Sheets to determine which products are hazardous and need to be included in our program. Common household cleaners should not be overlooked.

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2. MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS Copies of MSDS's for all hazardous chemicals to which employees may be exposed are kept in the Safety Office and in the Emergency Room. The MSDS's are also available to all employees in their work area during each work shift. If MSDS's are not available or new chemicals in use do not have MSDS's, please immediately contact the Safety Director.

3. EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND INFORMATION Employees are to attend a health and safety orientation for initial Hazard Communication training. New employees are to attend a health and safety orientation prior to starting work. Upon completion of the training, each employee will complete and sign a Hazard Communication Training Certificate which will become a permanent part of the employee's personnel file. The training is on the following:

• An overview of the requirements contained in both the federal and state Hazard Communication Rules.

• Review of chemicals present in the work area. • Location and availability of our written hazard program and MSDS's. • Physical and health effects of the hazardous chemicals. • Methods and observation techniques used to determine the presence or release of

hazardous chemicals in the work area. • How to lessen or prevent exposure to these hazardous chemicals through usage of

control/work practices and personal protective equipment. • Steps we have taken to lessen or prevent exposure to these chemicals. • Emergency procedures to follow if an employee is exposed to these chemicals. • How to read labels and review MSDS's to obtain appropriate hazard information.

NOTE: It is critically important that all of our employees understand the training. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Safety Director. When new chemicals are introduced, the area supervisor will review the above items as they relate to the new material in your work area safety meeting.

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4. HAZARDOUS NON-ROUTINE TASKS Periodically, employees may be required to handle chemicals for hazardous non-routine tasks. Prior to starting work on such projects, each affected employee will be given information by their supervisor about hazards to which they may be exposed during such an activity. This information will include:

• Specific chemical hazards. • Protective/safety measures which must be utilized. • Measures that have been taken to lessen the hazards, including ventilation,

respirators, presence of another employee and emergency procedures.

5. INFORMING CONTRACTORS To ensure that outside contractors work safely in our facilities, it is the responsibility of the Safety Director to provide contractors the following information.

• The name and location of the hazardous chemicals to which they may be exposed while on the premises.

• Any recommendations or appropriate protective measures to be taken

while on the premises. • Where the copies of MSDS's are kept in the facility.

6. LIST OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS A list of all known hazardous chemicals used in this organization can be found in Appendix A of this publication. This list is subject to change on an as needed basis. Further information on each noted chemical can be obtained by reviewing the Material Safety Data Sheets.

7. CHEMICALS IN UNLABELED PIPES All piping in this facility is to be labeled with the contents of the pipe. This policy applies to all piping regardless of contents.

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However, because of the complexity of this facility, some piping may not have been labeled. To ensure that our, and contractor employees, who may work on unlabeled pipes are informed as to the materials contained within, to following policy has been established: Prior to starting work on any pipe our employees, or contractor employees, are to contact the maintenance superintendent for the following information:

• Chemical in the pipe. • Potential hazards. • Safety precautions to be taken.

8. PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS If anyone has any questions about this plan, please contact the your supervisor or the Safety Director. Our plan will be monitored by the Safety Director to ensure that the policies are carried out and the plan is effective. When necessary, the program will be changed to correct any program deficiencies.

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* SAMPLE LETTER TO OTHER COMPANIES FOR MSDS * DATE Chemical Company Address City, State Zip RE: MSDS for _________________ Please send a copy of your Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the above referenced product. The MSDS is needed for compliance our Employee Hazard Communication Program. Please send the MSDS to: Company name Address Attn: Safety Director If you have any questions regarding this request please contact us. Sincerely, Safety Director

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APPENDIX A

LIST OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS The following is a list of all known hazardous chemicals used in this facility. Further information on each noted chemical can be obtained by reviewing the Material Safety Data Sheets. Hazardous Chemical

Trade or Common Name

Work Area or Process where found.

Manufacturer or Distributor

Date MSDS Received

SUMMARY You’re beginning to see this Written Plan requirement may take some time and effort.

Keep in mind, it’s the company’s guide to your Hazard Communications program and

should be as detailed as possible. The plan should include a list of the hazardous

chemicals in your facility and procedures for multi-employer worksites. The written

program must be made available to employees and their designated representatives upon

request. Policies, procedures, rules, methods, safety and other information must be

included in the written HAZCOM plan. Each day, new chemicals are added to the

growing list of chemicals in use throughout the world. New, better faster acting, more

potent chemicals. Better for greater living. The one thing we must do is keep up with

knowledge and information. The Hazard Communication standard is helping companies

all over the world get greater control of chemical information and to develop methods

and training programs to make sure chemicals don’t become physical or health hazards.

The program is working. More written plans are being developed, better policies and

procedures are entering the workplace and employees are gaining greater knowledge

about chemicals through effective training programs. It’s a team effort and it’s world

wide. The Hazard Communication Program is spreading all over the world because there

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is nothing else more important than human life. Do your part….. join the HAZCOM

team and make safety a major part of your job…… it pays big dividends.

For those of you on the internet, there’s an excellent web site published

by the State of New Jersey. This web site has over 700 fact sheets on

hazardous chemicals. It’s an excellent site to download these fact

sheets, for future use. There are numerous other sites that have MSDS

and additional Hazard Communications information. http://www.state.nj.us/health/eoh/rtkweb/hsfsdesc.htm