ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH & SAFETY
GUIDELINE
Subject: Hazard Communication Program
Date: 07-26-13
Revision: 01
Page: 1 of 14
This guideline is created and issued by the Environment Health and Safety Department (EHS) to provide
guidance and consistency in management of chemical containing products that are used by University of
Michigan-Flint faculty, staff and students.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section
Page
Summary
1
Scope
1
Reference Regulations
2
Definitions
2
Responsibility
4
Deans, Directors, Department Heads
4
Instructors and Principle Investigators
4
Employees
5
EHS
5
Departments Preparing Specification for
6
Contractors
Program Components
6
Training
7
Hazardous Material Information
8
Related Documents
8
Appendix A: SDS Location Poster
9
Appendix B: New/Revised SDS Notification
10
Appendix C: Sample GHS Label
11
Appendix D: Sample Secondary Chemical GHS
12
Appendix E: Pictograms
13
Appendix F: Compatibility Chart
14
SUMMARY
The purpose of this Guideline is to assure that all University of Michigan employees who use
chemical-containing products in their work activities are instructed to work with them in a safe
manner as required by Federal Regulation 29CFR 1910.1200 along with Michigan Regulation Part 42,
92, and 430 Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom). This program is modeled after the UM AA
OSEH Hazard Communication Program http://www.oseh.umich.edu/guidelines/hcp.shtml . A Hazard
Communication (HazCom) Program is necessary for communicating workplace chemical hazards
to employees. This Guideline identifies departmental responsibilities and the necessary
administrative oversight for managing the HazCom Program. A Model Hazard Communication
Program has been attached in Appendix G to assist departments in writing a HazCom Program
specific for their needs.
Subject: Hazard Communication
Date: 07-15-13
Revision: 01
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SCOPE
This guideline applies to all University employees that utilize any hazardous chemicals as
defined under the OSHA and MIOSHA Hazard Communication Standard. Laboratory workers
are covered under the Laboratory Safety Standard Chemical Hygiene Program, which has
similar requirements. Labs address Hazard Communication issues in their respective Chemical
Hygiene Plans (CHP) and therefore are not required to have a written Hazcom program for their
departments. Departments operating under the Lab Safety Standard should ensure operations
are consistent with OH Part 431 Hazardous Work In Laboratories and Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) Laboratory standard (29 CFR 1910.1450)
REFERENCE REGULATIONS:
State of Michigan Right To Know Law Act No. 80 Amendments to Act 154 Michigan
Occupational Safety and Health Act (MIOSHA):
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Construction Safety Standard Part 42 Hazard Communication
MIOSHA General Industry Safety Standard Part 92 Hazard Communication
MIOSHA Occupational Health Standard Part 430 Hazard Communication
DEFINITIONS
Chemical: Any element, chemical compound, or mixture of elements and/or compounds. Exposure to
chemicals can be in a variety of forms such as; solids, liquids, gases, dusts, mists, or fumes.
Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP): The intent of a CHP is to protect employees from hazardous chemicals
and promote a healthy and safe work environment. The CHP includes information to ensure that
employees have working knowledge about the hazardous chemicals they use. The CHP is also intended
to provide information on best practices in laboratory health and safety
Exposure (or Exposed): means that an employee is subjected in the course of employment to a chemical
that is a physical or health hazard and includes potential e.g. accidental or possible exposure.
“Subjected” in terms of health hazards include any route of entry e.g. inhalation, ingestion, skin contact
or absorption.
Hazard Category: The division on criteria within each hazard class, e.g. oral acute toxicity, and
flammable liquids include four categories. These categories compare hazard severity within a hazard
class and should not be taken as a comparison of hazard categories more generally.
Hazard Class: The nature of the physical or health hazards, e.g. flammable solid, carcinogen, oral acute
toxicity.
Hazard Not Otherwise Classified (HNOC): An adverse physical or health effect identified through
evaluation of scientific evidence during the classification process that does not meet the specified
criteria for the physical and health classes.
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Hazard Statements: Hazard statements are standardized and assigned phrases that describe the
hazard(s) as determined by hazard classification. An appropriate statement for each GHS hazard should
be included on the label for products possessing more than one hazard.
Hazard Chemical-any chemical which is classified as a physical hazard, or a health hazard, a
simple asphyxiant, combustible dust, pyrophoric gas, or hazard not otherwise classified (HNOC).
For example, compressed gas is considered a physical hazard and wood dust is considered a
health hazard.
Health Hazard: A chemical for which there is statistically significant evidence that acute or chronic
health effects may occur. The term “health hazard” applies to chemicals which are:
 Carcinogens
 Toxic or highly toxic agents
 Reproductive toxins
 Irritants, corrosives
 Sensitizers
 Hepatotoxins (affects liver)
 Nephrotoxins (affects kidneys)
 Neurotoxins (affects nervous system)
 Agents which act on the hematopoietic (blood-forming) system,
 Agents who damage the lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
Label: An appropriate group of written, printed, or graphic information elements concerning a
hazardous chemical that is affixed to, printed on, or attached to the immediate container of a hazardous
chemical, or on the outside of packaging.
Mixture: A combination or solution composed of two or more substances in which they do not react.
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE): Devices worn by worker to protect against hazards in the
environment. See UM OSEH Guideline-Personal Protective Equipment, General.
 Eye Protection (goggles, safety glasses)
 Lab Coats
 Apron
 Hand Protection (latex, nitrile gloves etc.)
 Foot Protection (shoe covers, “booties”)
Physical Hazard: A chemical that is classified as a posing on of the following hazardous effects:
 Explosive
 Flammable (gases, aerosols, liquids, or solids)
 Oxidizer (liquids, solids, or gas)
 Self-reactive
 Pyrophoric (liquid or solid)
 Self-heating
 Organic peroxide
 Corrosive to metal
Subject: Hazard Communication
Date: 07-15-13
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Gas under pressure
In contact with water emits flammable gases
Pictograms: A composition that may include symbols plus other graphic elements, such as a border,
background pattern, or color, that is intended to convey specific information about the hazards of a
chemical. Eight mandatory pictograms and one non-mandatory pictogram that are designated under the
MIOSHA standard for application to a particular hazard category (see appendix E).
Precautionary Statement: A phrase that describes recommended measures that should be taken to
minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from the exposure to a hazardous chemical or improper
storage or handling.
Pyrophoric Gas: A chemical in a gaseous state that will ignite spontaneously in air at a temperature of
130oF (54.4oC) or below.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The SDS is a written or
printed material concerning a hazardous chemical that serves as an informational tool developed by
chemical manufactures containing the following information for a hazardous chemical:
 Product Identification
 Use Restrictions
 Hazard Identification
 Chemical Ingredients
 First-aid Measures
 Fire-fighting measures
 Accidental Release Measures
 Handling and Storage Information
 Physical and Chemical Properties
 Stability and Reactivity Information
 Toxicological Information
SDS are in a standardized, 16 section format and can be obtained from the chemical suppliers and many
internet sites.
Signal Words: The signal word indicates the relative degree of severity a hazard. The signal words used
in the GHS are
 "Danger" for the more severe hazards.
 "Warning" for the less severe hazards.
Signal words are standardized and assigned to the hazard categories within endpoints. Some lower level
hazard categories do not use signal words. Only one signal word corresponding to the class of the most
severe hazard should be used on a label.
Simple Asphyxiate: A substance or mixture that displaces oxygen in the ambient atmosphere, and can
thus cause oxygen deprivation in those who are exposed, leading to unconsciousness and death.
Substance: Chemical elements and their compounds in the natural state or obtained by any production
process, including any additive necessary to preserve the stability of the product and any impurities
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deriving from the process used, but excluding any solvent which may be separated without affecting the
stability of the substance or changing its composition.
Trade Secrets: Any confidential formula, pattern, process, device, information or compilation of
information that is used in an employer’s business and that gives the employer an opportunity to obtain
an advantage over competitors who do not know or use it.
Use: To package, handle, react, emit, extract, generate as a byproduct or transfer.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
This program applies to employees, faculty, including student’s workers, temporary, graduate assistants
and contract employees under the direct supervision of department employees, who may come into
contact with or be exposed to hazardous materials at the workplace while performing their normal
duties or during emergency conditions. It also applies to those who are involved in the purchase,
transportation, or storage of hazardous materials.
Deans, Directors and Department Heads:
 Designate and empower supervisors who will be responsible for the preparation and
implementation of the Hazard Communication Program within each work unit.
 Actively support this program within individual units.
 Ensure an environment where all staff, student employees, and faculty are encouraged to follow
this program.
Supervisors:
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Implement procedures in accordance to this Guideline.
Ensure that employees are aware of this Guideline, instructed on the details of implementation
and provided by supervisors and/or ESH regarding Hazard Communication.
Ensure that employees are instructed on the details of implementation and provided equipment
and methods of control.
Maintain documentation of the program and training records as required.
Contact EHS to request initial training, technical assistance, and to evaluate health and safety
concerns with their unit.
Employees and Student Workers (as defined above):
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Familiarize themselves and comply with hazard warnings, hazard labels, and SDS’s so they can
use this information where needed.
Comply with this program and any further safety recommendations provided by supervisors
and/or EHS regarding Hazard Communication.
Conduct assigned tasks in a safe manner.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Obtain training and/or information prior to using unfamiliar chemicals.
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Date: 07-15-13
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Environment, Health and Safety:
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Document and administer the Hazard Communication Program
Provide training to supervisors and employees upon request, and maintain records of EHS
provided training.
Assist departments in the selection of PPE for routine or non-routine activities, when requested.
Assist UM-Flint Departments in providing vendors and contractors with information about
hazardous chemicals that their employees may be exposed to on the job site, and suggested
precautions.
Assist in obtaining information about hazardous chemicals used by UM-Flint employees and
students which contractors might be exposed to.
Maintain a comprehensive file of SDS for hazardous chemicals provided to EHS by individual
departments for products used and stored at the university.
Serve as a university liaison for local, county, state and federal agencies regarding safety issues.
Review and revise the Hazard Communication Program as necessary to comply with government
regulations.
Departments Preparing Specifications for Contractors: (Facilities & Operations, ITS, Procurement, etc.)
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Inform contractors of any hazardous chemicals located in the contracted work area and the
precautionary measurements to be taken to protect employees during normal operations and
foreseeable emergencies.
Inform contractors they must provide SDS for all hazardous materials they propose to bring, use
or store on campus, prior to beginning work.
Inform contractors that they are required to maintain SDS on site for all hazardous materials
brought onto university property.
Inform contractors that they must comply with all other University of Michigan contractor safety
requirements.
PROCEDURES:
The written Hazard Communication Program is necessary to describe the chemical hazards present in
the workplace and how these hazards will be communicated to the employees. A Model Hazard
Communication Program is included with this Guideline in Appendix G to provide assistance in preparing
individualized documents.
The components of this written program must include:
1. A list of all hazardous chemicals located in the workplace.
2. Methods to ensure containers of hazardous chemicals are clearly labeled with the identity of the
material, as well as the appropriate hazard warnings.
3. Methods to be utilized for acquiring and maintaining SDS for each listed hazardous chemical.
The MIOSHA SDS location poster (Appendix A) identifying the location and the responsible
person for obtaining the SDS must be posted in the workplace. The Michigan Safety and Health
Protection on the Job Poster must also be posted. At UM-Flint, these are posted outside the
University Human Resources Department in 213 University Pavilion. The MIOSHA SDS Location
Poster may also be posted in individual departments where chemicals are used or stored.
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Revision: 01
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4. Notifications of new and revised SDS must be posted in the workplace 5 days after receipt and
remain in place for 10 days. The MIOSHA New or Revised SDS Poster (Appendix B) can be
utilized for this purpose.
5. SDS are considered to be a source of employee exposure records, and must be maintained for at
least 30 years, unless records of the chemical name, where and how it was used are maintained
for at least 30 years.
6. The SDS must comply with government regulations and be available for employee use. Methods
for obtaining SDS include contacting the manufacturer or supplier of the chemical or utilizing
various SDS resources provided on the EHS website such as the ChemGold III (CG3) SDS
Database & Search Engine and repository program :
http://www.umflint.edu/ehs/Material%20Safety%20Data%20Sheets%20&%20Chemical%20Safety.htm
7.
Hazardous chemical information and training must be readily available to employees and
student workers at the time of the initial assignment and whenever new hazardous chemicals
are introduced to the work area. The hazardous associated to the use of chemicals used in a
non-routine manner (a manner other than what they were originally intended for) and the
hazards associated with performing non routine or emergency tasks associated to an operation
e.g. cleaning reactor vessel, entering confined spaces, etc. must be included as well. EHS can
provide technical assistance, information, and training materials to assist departments with
compliance.
8. Contractors must be informed of the presence of hazardous chemicals that they may encounter
while at the university and contractors must provide the university with SDS for products they
intend to use during the university projects that contain hazardous chemicals.
9. Pipes and piping systems containing a hazardous chemical must be identified by a label, sign,
placard, or written operating procedures.
TRAINING
Initial Training
Training can be presented in a formal classroom setting using videotapes and lecture methods or it can
be an informal on-the-job discussion of the required training information. With either method, the
training must be documented and records maintained for not less than 30 years. For employees, faculty
or student workers whose duties require them to work with or around hazardous materials, initial
training shall be provided by department or EHS before they begin their work assignment. This training
will cover at a minimum the following topics:
1. Overview of Hazard Communication regulations, including employees' rights under the
regulations.
2. Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous
chemical in the work area. Examples include air monitoring devices, visual appearance, or odor.
3. The physical and health hazards of the chemicals typically found in work areas.
4. How to read warning labels and identify the presence or release of hazardous materials.
5. The measures employees can take to protect themselves from the haards. Examples include
appropriate work practices, emergency procedures and personal protective equipment.
6. Emergency procedures for spills/accidents, including fire hazards, first aid, clean-up, and
disposal, protecting storm drains.
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7. Location and availability of this Hazard Communication Program, including hazardous materials
lists and SDS’s.
8. How to read an SDS and use it to identify (at a minimum)
a. Physical and Health Hazards
b. First Aid Procedures
c. Protective Measures
d. Storage and Handling Procedures
e. Spill Response Procedures
9. Details of the HazCom Program include identifying operations where hazardous chemicals are
present, the location and availability of the written program with the list of hazardous chemicals
present and the SDS, an explanation of the labeling system, and how employees can use the
hazard information.
Training videos and other training materials are available from the EHS office at 810-766-6763. When
needed, the EHS will coordinate/schedule hazard communication training for employees, students and
others.
Site-Specific Training
Site specific training shall also be provided on an as-needed basis as new hazards are introduced into the
workplace and for hazards that are newly discovered (For example, if a new solvent is brought into the
workplace, and it has hazards similar to existing chemical for which training has already been conducted,
no new training is required). It is responsibility of the supervisor to coordinate this training.
Training for Non-Routine Tasks
Periodically, employees, and student workers are required to perform non-routine tasks which may
involve hazardous materials. Before starting work on such projects, affected employees shall be given
information by their supervisor or PI about the hazards to which they may be exposed.
If hazardous non-routine tasks need to be performed by employees, site specific training will be held.
HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION
A. All purchases of hazardous materials must include the SDS with delivery.
B. A list of workplace hazardous materials can be found in SDS binders/files and entered into the
campus chemical inventory data base.
C. Safety Data Sheets can also be obtained online at the following web site:
http://www.umflint.edu/ehs/Material%20Safety%20Data%20Sheets%20&%20Chemical%20Safe
ty.htm
D. Departments must maintain hard copy of SDS and also forward copy to the EHS department.
Postings
Signs must be posted in the workplace to notify employees of the following:
(See Appendix A)
 The location of the SDS and the name of the person from whom to obtain the sheets.
 The employer is prohibited from discharging or discriminating against an employee who
exercises the rights regarding information about hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
Subject: Hazard Communication
Date: 07-15-13
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The SDS locator poster and the poster that notifies employees of new or revised SDS are posted
at various locations across the university campus. (See Appendix A and B)
In the event of an emergency call: UM-Flint Department of Public Safety 9-1-1 from any campus
telephone or (810)-762-3333
Contact EHS at (810)-766-6763
WARNINGS & LABELING
All containers of hazardous materials are to be labeled with the following information:
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Product Identifier
Signal word
Hazard Statement(s)
Pictograms(s)
Precautionary statement(s)
Name, address, and telephone number of chemical manufacture, importer, or other responsible
party.
Emergency Contact Information
If a secondary container is used, it must be labeled with either a copy of the original label or with
appropriate generic labels, as long as all required information is transferred to the blank generic label.
Required information for secondary/portable containers:
1. Product Identifier- use the common chemical name. Abbreviations not acceptable.
2. Health/Physical Hazards – use general hazard word (e.g. carcinogenic; flammable; corrosive etc.)
3. Optional Items-include GHS pictograms, other graphics, symbols. (e.g. use a flame symbol for
flammable, combustible does not necessarily GHS flame pictogram.)
4. For small containers, where it would be difficult to attach a legible label a tag may be utilized or
labeling a rack or other container of smaller containers may be used.
All warnings and labels must be legible, in English, and prominently displayed on containers, or readily
available in the work area throughout each work shift.
For example of labeling requirements see Appendix C
RELATED DOCUMENTS:
Hazardous Work in Laboratories; Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)
Personal Protective Equipment, General Guideline
UM-Flint Emergency Response Plan
Appendix A: SDS Location Poster
Appendix B: New or Revised SDS Poster – to be posted in areas where chemical products are used.
Appendix C: Sample GHS Label
Appendix D: Sample GHS Labels for Secondary/Portable Containers
Appendix E: Reference Pictogram Labels
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Appendix F: Reference Chemical Compatibility Chart
Appendix G: Hazard Communication Program- Model Program for Department’s Use
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Appendix A: MIOSHA SDS Locator Poster – to be posted in common areas where chemical products
are used or stored.
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Appendix B: New or Revised SDS Poster – to be posted in areas where chemical products are used or
stored.
Subject: Hazard Communication
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Appendix C: Sample GHS Label
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Appendix D: Sample GHS Label for Secondary/Portable Containers
Print your own GHS compliant labels in different sizes using the Chemgold System available UM-Flint
EHS website: http://jr.chemwatch.net/chemgold3/?X. Click on Label button on left side of screen,
enter chemical name and manufacturer.
Subject: Hazard Communication
Date: 07-15-13
Appendix E: Pictogram Labels
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Subject: Hazard Communication
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Appendix F: Compatibility Chart
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Appendix G: Hazard Communication Program – Model Plan
(Customize the red, italicized portions within each particular section of this Model Plan)
Purpose
Designated Responsibilities
Written Hazard Communication Program
1. Hazardous Chemical List
2. Labels and Hazard Warnings
3. Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
4. Non-Routine Tasks and Unlabeled Piping
5. Departments Preparing Specifications for Contracted Work or Hiring Contractors
6. Postings
7. Employee Information and Training
HazCom Review/Revision Sheet
SDS Access Sites
Glossary of Common SDS Terms
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Hazard Communication (“HazCom”) Program is to inform employees working for the Name of
Department of the chemical hazards present in their work environment and ways to protect themselves during
normal operations and during forseeable emergencies. The program identifies departmental responsibilities for
ensuring a safe and healthful work environment for all employees located in Building Name(s) or Area.
DESIGNATED RESPONSIBILITIES
The person responsible for the implementation of the Hazard Communication Program for Department Name is
Responsible Individual. Responsibilities include compliance with the components of this document, including
completion, review and maintenance of the specific written HazCom program.
Other responsibilities that need to be addressed include; general employee training, specific task training,
obtaining and maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDS), assuring proper labeling of chemical products. This can be
written out in text or table format.
WRITTEN HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM
All of the following items must be included in the written program:
1. Hazardous Chemical List
A list of hazardous chemicals used in the workplace and location(s) in building(s) where they are present.
State how this list will be maintained and updated, who is responsible, providing it to EHS, and how it
will be made available. Example: Updating the UM-Flint Chemical Inventory for your department.
Arrangement of the list could be alphabetically by product or manufacturer or both.
2.
Labels and Hazard Warnings
Proper labeling of hazardous chemical containers must be assured at the time of receipt and periodically
thereafter. Proper labeling will include the identity of the chemical, pictograms/pictures and the hazard
warnings appropriate for employee protection. Portable, secondary or in-house workplace containers must
be labeled with the same label that would be on shipped containers for the chemical or with a product
identifier and words, pictures, symbols, or combination thereof, which provide at least general information
regarding the physical & health hazards of the chemicals.
Alternative labeling systems such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 704 Hazard Rating
and the Hazardous Material Information System (HMIS) are permitted for workplace containers. However,
the information supplied on these labels must be consistent with the revised HCS, e.g., no conflicting
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hazard warnings or pictograms.
State who will be responsible for this, what type of system will assure that this procedure is followed at
the time of receipt and periodically thereafter.
The labels must be legible, in English, and prominently displayed. All pipes and piping that contain
hazardous contents must be labeled according to the U-M Design Guidelines developed and maintained by
Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC). Information can be found in AEC’s Design Guideline,
Section 15190: Mechanical Identification and Painting. On the UM-Flint campus, Facilities & Operations
would be responsible for labeling of pipes.
3. Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
SDS must be obtained for all hazardous chemicals that are brought into the facility. SDS must be
maintained for employee access. SDS for new chemicals must be posted no later than five (5) days after
receipt and remain in place for ten (10) days. SDS are considered to be a part of employee medical records
and therefore must be maintained for at least 30 years. SDS for materials no longer used or stored
should be kept in an “archived” section of each facility’s SDS binder.
Methods for obtaining SDS include contacting the manufacturer or supplier of the chemical directly or
utilizing various SDS databases noted on ESH’s Safety Data Sheet webpage. Refer to the instructions for
accessing these SDS databases on ESH webpage.
In lieu of maintaining hard copies of SDS, electronic versions of a Department’s SDS can also be obtained
within ChemWatch’s ChemGold III (CG3) SDS repository program. Instructions for using this program as
well as for creating Departmental SDS folders can also be found in ESH’s Safety Data Sheet webpage.
Users of the EHSA Chemical Inventory system can also associate (link-to) on-line SDS location
information for the chemicals they are tracking with this system. Refer to the information provided within
ESH’s Chemical Inventory webpage, UM Ann Arbor OSEH webpage, or contact ESH for more
information 810-766-6763.
Describe specifically who will be responsible for collecting and maintaining the SDS, the location of the
SDS, and how employees can access them.
4.
Non-Routine Tasks and Unlabeled Piping (Delete this Section if not applicable.)
Whenever hazardous chemicals are to be used in a non-routine manner (a manner other than what it was
intended) or when performing non-routine tasks associated to the operation, e.g., cleaning reactor vessels,
entering confined spaces, etc., knowledgeable Departmental staff should be consulted for overall safety
considerations prior to performing the operation(s).
The hazards associated with these non-routine tasks must be reviewed with the employee prior to beginning
the task. ESH staff is available to evaluate non-routine tasks and provide hazard information to the
department and employee.
Non-routine hazard information to provide employees will include (as applicable):
 Specific chemical hazards.
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Personal protection and safety measures the employee can take to lessen risks of performing the task.
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Measures that have been taken to eliminate or control the hazard, including, but not limited to:
o air monitoring,
o ventilation requirements,
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o use of respirators,
o use of attendants to observe procedures, and
o emergency procedures.
Additional details regarding confined spaces can be found on ESH’s webpage.
Employees working in areas that contain hazardous chemicals in piping must be informed of the contents
and provided with appropriate hazard information.
State how the above items will be addressed.
5.
Departments Preparing Specifications for Contracted Work or Hiring Contractors
When contractors are working for the University, they must be informed of any hazardous chemical they
may come into contact within the project area. The contractor, in turn, must inform the University of any
hazardous chemicals they intend to use while on University property and provide the appropriate SDS.
Both parties must be aware of the necessary measures to be taken during normal operations and forseeable
emergencies.
State the procedures that will be followed to assure that contractors are informed of the presence of
hazardous chemicals in their work areas and the necessary measures to be taken during normal
operations and forseeable emergencies. State what mechanisms will be utilized to assure that the
University is informed of any hazardous chemicals the contractor brings on-site and that the SDS(s) are
available.
6.
Postings
Signs must be posted in the workplace to notify employees of the following:
a) The location of the SDS and the name of the person from whom to obtain the sheets.
b) The employer is prohibited from discharging or discriminating against an employee who
the rights regarding information about hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
exercises
c) The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA), part of Michigan’s
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, can be contacted for assistance in obtaining SDS.
The SDS locator poster and the poster that notifies employees of new or revised SDS are posted at Note the
location(s) of these posters.
The blank MIOSHA SDS locator posters can be downloaded from the MIOSHA website:
http://www6.dleg.state.mi.us/Parsers/safety_posters.asp
7.
Employee Information and Training
Consider what methods of information and training would be best suited for the needs of the department,
who will be responsible for and conduct the training, how will this be implemented and maintained for
new hires and/or new chemical usage, and who will be responsible for maintaining documentation of the
process.
The contents of the Hazard Communication training must be documented in the written program and
contain at a minimum the following information:
a. Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in
the work area. Examples include, air monitoring devices, visual appearance or odor.
b. Physical and health hazards of the chemicals present in the work area.
c. Measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards. Examples include, appropriate
work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
d. Details of the HazCom Program, including identifying operations where hazardous chemicals are
present, the location and availability of the written program with the list of hazardous chemicals present
and the SDS, an explanation of the labeling system, and how employees can use the hazard information.
Subject: Hazard Communication
Date: 07-15-13
Revision: 01
Page 20 of 21
For additional compliance assistance, a guidance document is available on the MIOSHA website: Right to Know
(RTK) Hazard Communication Compliance Guideline (SP #22).
A HazCom review/revision sheet is also included below that should be used to document the regular, i.e., annual,
reviews of the written program.
Subject: Hazard Communication
Date: 07-15-13
Revision: 01
Page 21 of 21
HazCom Review / Revision
(Complete this page, after each HazCom review or revision.)
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