More than 30 million workers in the United States are potentially exposed to one or more chemical hazards in their workplaces. With over 650,000 existing hazardous chemical products—and hundreds of new ones introduced each year—this presents a significant challenge for both employers and employees.
The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), outlined in 29 CFR 1910.1200, ensures that workers exposed to hazardous chemicals are informed about the identities, hazards, and necessary protective measures associated with these substances.
When employees have access to this information, they can take proper precautions to protect themselves from chemical exposure and reduce the risk of illness or injury.
Your Right to Know
The foundation of the HCS is a simple but vital principle:
Employees have both the right and the need to know about the hazardous chemicals they may encounter on the job.
Under this standard, every worker should understand:
- What chemicals they are working with or around.
- What hazards those chemicals present.
- How to protect themselves, including using proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and following safe handling procedures.
Who Is Protected
The Hazard Communication Standard applies to all workers who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals across all industrial sectors. By following this standard, both employers and employees can help reduce workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities associated with chemical hazards—and maintain compliance with OSHA regulations.