On March 26, 2012 the much anticipated revision to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910.1200) was published in the Federal Register. The revised standard incorporated portions of the United Nation’s Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This resulted in changes in three major areas – hazard classification, labels and safety data sheets (SDSs).
OSHA established a four-year timetable that stretched to June 1, 2016 for 100 percent transition. By now, you should have completed any needed updates to your written workplace hazard communication program, including workplace labeling procedures. Training of employees on their new workplace hazard communication program must also be completed.