Source: Public domain

Effective handling and management of hazardous materials are addressed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), regional building codes and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Implementation of their control measures and labeling requirements helps personnel identify potential risks and minimize the potential for exposure when dealing with hazardous materials.

Labeling Requirements

OSHA adopted new labeling requirements as recently as June of 2015. Their revised Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200 (HCS) aligns their requirements with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

The standard is based on a universal method of classifying hazardous substances. There are nine hazard classes and the associated pictograms serve as a quick universal identifier of potential risks including a pictogram of a health hazard, a flame, an exclamation mark, a gas cylinder, corrosion, an exploding bomb, a flame over a circle, environment (non-mandatory) and skull and crossbones.

Each pictogram consists of a symbol on a white background framed within a red border. They identify the distinct hazards associated with the hazardous substance. The label must also include vital information including a product identifier, signal word, hazard statement(s) and precautionary statement(s) along with the name, address and telephone number of the responsible party involved with packaging.

The pictograms and vital information displayed on the label is affixed to, printed on or attached to the immediate container and outside packaging. Together, they help ensure that proper control methods can be identified for safe handling and storage of hazardous substances.

Control Methods

Knowledge is a valuable asset and with use of standard labeling requirements keen insight is given regarding the nature of the hazardous substances and the potential risks involved. These labels are vital to safe storage and transport, but without proper actions they are useless. To ensure that personnel practices safe handling and management of hazardous substances, control measures are paramount.

Proper control measures include the elimination or substitution of hazardous materials, engineering controls, required personal protective equipment and administrative procedures. They are designed to protect personnel by controlling their exposure to chemical hazards and toxic substances while the control methods used are specific to the type of hazard present.

The first line of defense is to evaluate system requirements and identify safer alternatives whenever possible. Removing the use of hazardous substances or replacing them with safer alternatives helps reduce the risk of exposure.

Once basic chemical requirements are defined, the system as a whole must be evaluated. Engineering controls can then be implemented, including equipment modifications, proper ventilation and defined processes that reduce the risk of exposure.

Administrative controls then dictate proper methods of performing work. Personnel must follow defined policies that specify the timing of work, standard operating procedures, training required, maintenance schedules and personal hygiene practices.

Personal protective equipment is the last line of defense. After all exposure risks have been minimized, PPE acts to safeguard personnel from known hazardous present and can include respirators, appropriate eyewear, safety clothing, specific types of gloves, footwear and, possibly, a full cleanroom suit.

Conclusion

Universal labeling requirements are well defined and provide valuable insight regarding the nature of the hazardous substances being handled. To ensure a safe workplace, control methods are the single most important factor facilities have control over. To help minimize exposure risks when handling and storing hazardous material, periodic review and monitoring of hazardous control methods will ensure a safer environment, lower risks and reduce liabilities when handling and storing hazardous substances.

Resources:

Hazard Communication Standard Pictogram

Hazard Control