OSHA’s new Hazard Communication (HazCom) final rule, released on May 20, 2024 will take effect on July 19, 2024. This rule includes several key updates and has staggered compliance dates based on the proposed transition period:
- Substances: Must comply with the final rule by January 19, 2026
- Employers must update alternative workplace labeling, hazard communication programs, and provide additional employee training by July 20, 2026
- Mixtures: Must comply with the final rule by July 19, 2027
- Employers must update alternative workplace labeling, hazard communication programs, and provide additional employee training by July 19, 2028
The final rule updates the Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) to align with Revision 7 of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), the first update since 2012 (aligned with GHS Revision 3).
The rule also incorporates several OSHA letters of interpretation issued since the last update. Key changes include:
- New Definitions: Bulk shipment, combustible dust, gas, immediate outer package, liquid, physician or other licensed healthcare professional (PLHCP), released for shipment, and solid.
- Revised Definitions: Exposure or exposed, hazardous chemical, and physical hazard.
- Labeling Requirements: For very small containers and bulk containers.
- Flammable Gas Hazard Class Changes: Includes a new hazard class (desensitized explosives) and new hazard categories (unstable gases, pyrophoric gases in the Flammable Gases class, and nonflammable aerosols in the Aerosols class).
- Updated Health Hazard Statements and Precautionary Statements.
- Trade Secret claims: Listing of concentration ranges to align with the Canada WHMIS prescribed ranges.
To stay up to date on all chemical regulatory or to update you SDS contact Nexreg Compliance.