OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.1200 Hazard Communication Standard was the second most frequently standard cited during fiscal year 2014, right behind fall protection. HazCom violations generally rank high on the most-cited list, because they occur across a variety of industries and because it’s relatively easy for OSHA inspectors to observe violations – such as when hazardous materials lack labels or safety data sheets.
First adopted in 1983, the standard has subsequently been expanded and revised to cover all industries where employees are potentially exposed to hazardous chemicals. It addresses how to classify hazardous chemicals and how to communicate information about hazards and appropriate protective measure to employees.