When you think of OSHA compliance, hazard communication (HazCom) may not be the first thing that comes to mind. That may be why it was the second most commonly cited OSHA violation in 2023. Employers don’t often prioritize HazCom, simply because they are not familiar with the standard or they’re focused on more visible workplace hazards, but HazCom was created to protect workers from injury and illness.
One big reason employers struggle is that the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard may feel like a moving target. In July 2024, OSHA aligned its standard primarily with the seventh revision of the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. The updated standard will require labels on small packaging to be more comprehensive and readable and makes changes to help ensure trade secrets no longer prevent workers and first responders from receiving critical hazard information on safety data sheets.
OSHA is giving chemical manufacturers, importers and distributors from Jan. 19, 2026, to July 19, 2027, to comply with the new rules, depending on if they’re evaluating substances or mixtures. Employers using products covered under the standard must update their HazCom training, programs and labeling by July 20, 2026, or Jan. 19, 2028, depending on substances or mixtures.
What does the Hazard Communication Standard ensure?
The purpose of a HazCom program is to ensure that workers understand the hazards of the chemicals they’re exposed to at work to prevent injury and illness. “The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard is one of the most important occupational safety standards because it ensures chemical safety in the workplace,” says Ryan Dedolph, Safety Program Manager at Pinnacol. “The standard provides employees with the right to know and understand the hazards associated with the chemicals they use, and how to work with them safely.”
Learning about and staying up to date on the latest standard will help employers when developing a HazCom program or updating an existing one.
What must a HazCom program include?
An organization’s HazCom program is crucial to protecting the safety and health of employees who work with hazardous chemicals. “A HazCom program describes how your organization will meet the provisions for labeling, safety data sheets and employee training. The program should also include a list of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace, how the employer will inform employees of the hazards of non-routine tasks and the hazards associated with chemicals contained in unlabeled pipes in their work areas,” says Dedolph. “The HazCom program must also be written and available to employees upon request.”
How to create a HazCom plan
According to OSHA, employers can implement an effective HazCom program by following these six steps:
- Learn the standard/identify responsible staff
- Prepare and implement a written HazCom program and make it available to employees
- Ensure containers are labeled
- Maintain safety data sheets (SDSs)
- Inform employees and provide HazCom training
- Evaluate and reassess your program
Want to know more about implementing or updating your hazard communication program? Check out Pinnacol’s hazard communication guide, including our sample hazard communication program template.
Pinnacol Assurance assumes no responsibility for management or control of customer safety activities. Please ensure your business meets the requirements of all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, or ordinances related to workplace safety.
