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Hazard Communication
You Have The Right To Know--And Understand
William & Mary employees have the right to know the properties and potential safety and health hazards of substances to which they may be exposed. This knowledge is essential to reducing the risk of occupational illness and injury.
In 2012, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revised the Hazard Communication Standard to align it with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), which gives workers the "right to understand."
Goals of Hazard Communication
- To help reduce the risks involved in working with hazardous materials.
- To transmit vital information to employees about real and potential hazards of substances.
- To reduce the incidence and cost of illness and injury resulting from hazardous substances.
- To promote the public employer's need and right to know.
- To encourage a reduction in the volume and toxicity of hazardous substances.
For more information on Hazard Communication and the Globally Harmonized System, visit the OSHA website.
Resources
Safety Data Sheets & GHS
In 2013, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revised its Hazard Communication Standard to align with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). The revised standard requires the use of a standardized format for Safety Data Sheets (SDS), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). At William & Mary, safety data sheets are utilized in work planning, hazard mitigation, equipment compatibility assessments, and first aid treatment. For accidents involving chemicals, having an SDS for the emergency personnel and the attending physician will help ensure proper treatment is administered as quickly as possible.
Supervisors, including Principal Investigators, are responsible for ensuring their employees have access to safety data sheets for all hazardous chemicals used in the workplace. Employees can access safety data sheets via physical copies or the electronic library. Electronic library access instructions are located on the door where hazardous materials are physically located and also outlined in the Accessing Safety Data Sheets Online (pdf) guidelines.