HAZARD COMMUNICATION STANDARD
All Public Schools of Robeson County Employees must receive training on the The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) which is now aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This update to the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) will provide a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. Once implemented, the revised standard will improve the quality and consistency of hazard information in the workplace, making it safer for all of our employees by providing easily understandable information on appropriate handling and safe use of hazardous chemicals.
HAZARD COMMUNICATION TRAINING FOR PSRC EMPLOYEES
Training Requirement:
Currently we have individuals in the maintenance department who are responsible for the Hazard Communication Program and will ensure that all program elements are carried out. Everyone who works with or is potentially exposed to hazardous chemicals will receive initial training on the hazard communication standard and hazard communication plan before starting work. Each new PSRC employee will attend a health and safety orientation that includes the following information and training:
An overview of the OSHA hazard communication standard
The hazardous chemicals present at his/her work area
The physical and health risks of the hazardous chemicals
Symptoms of overexposure
How to determine the presence or release of hazardous chemicals in the work area
How to reduce or prevent exposure to hazardous chemicals through use of control procedures, work practices and personal protective equipment
Steps the company has taken to reduce or prevent exposure to hazardous chemicals
Procedures to follow if employees are overexposed to hazardous chemicals
How to read labels and SDSs to obtain hazard information
Location of the SDS file and written Hazard Communication program
Prior to introducing a new chemical hazard into any section of the school system, each employee in that section will be given information and training as outlined above for the new chemical hazard.
Resources:
Hazard Communication Safety Data Sheets
The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires chemical manufacturers, distributors, or importers to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) (formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets or MSDSs) to communicate the hazards of hazardous chemical products. As of June 1, 2015, the HCS will require new SDSs to be in a uniform format.
Hazard Communication Labels and Pictograms
This document is designed to inform chemical receivers, chemical purchasers, and trainers about the label requirements. It explains the new labeling elements, identifies what goes on a label, and describes what pictograms are and how to use them.