Note: Your progress in watching these videos WILL NOT be tracked. These training videos are the same videos you will experience when you take the full ProHazCom program. You may begin the training for free at any time to start officially tracking your progress toward your certificate of completion.

  1. Understanding Hazard Communication: Protecting Your Workplace

Next Video
Sign Up
Show full transcript for Understanding Hazard Communication: Protecting Your Workplace video

Understanding Hazard Communication: Protecting Your Workplace

What is Hazard Communication?

Hazardous chemicals are found in nearly every workplace—from small offices to large industrial facilities. And we're not just talking about strong acids or industrial solvents. Everyday items like oven cleaners, copier toner, and pool chlorine can pose health risks if not handled correctly.

To ensure workplace safety, OSHA established the Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom) in 1983. The most recent updates took effect in 2024, aligning the standard with GHS Revision 7, with select elements from GHS Rev. 8. The purpose? To give workers the “Right to Understand” the chemicals they encounter—not just knowing they exist, but fully grasping how to stay safe around them.

Pro Tip #1: The latest HazCom update reinforces the shift from the Right to Know to the Right to Understand, placing emphasis on comprehension over mere awareness.

Recognizing Chemical Hazards

Not all chemicals are dangerous, but OSHA requires manufacturers and importers to evaluate each one and classify it under one or more of the following hazard categories:

  • Physical Hazards – Chemicals that pose risks like flammability, explosiveness, or oxidizing properties.
  • Health Hazards – Chemicals that can cause irritation, respiratory issues, organ damage, reproductive harm, or cancer.
  • Other Hazards – Risks such as combustible dust, simple asphyxiants, or environmental effects.

This classification is communicated through chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which provide essential handling and emergency information.

Warning: Frequent use doesn't mean a chemical is harmless. Always review the label and SDS before using any chemical.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers must maintain an up-to-date hazard communication program, which includes:

  • Maintaining an inventory of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
  • Informing employees about the risks associated with hazardous materials.
  • Ensuring all hazardous material containers are labeled correctly.
  • Identifying tasks that may expose employees to hazardous chemicals.
  • Training employees on safe handling, emergency procedures, and required protective measures, including PPE.
  • Communicating any new hazards or updated information.
  • Ensuring employees can easily access Safety Data Sheets at all times.

Pro Tip #2: OSHA requires training to be delivered in a way employees can understand. That may include using plain language, demonstrations, or translations if necessary.

Understanding Chemical Labels

Employees must be trained to recognize key label elements and the standardized SDS format. Every hazardous chemical label must include:

  • Product Identifier – The name or code used to reference the chemical.
  • Signal Word – Indicates the level of hazard severity: “Danger” for more serious risks, “Warning” for less severe ones.
  • Hazard Statements – Describe the specific nature of the hazard.
  • Precautionary Statements – Recommended measures for safe use.
  • Pictograms – Standardized red-framed symbols that visually represent specific hazard classes.
  • Supplier Information – Manufacturer/importer name, address, and phone number.

For small containers (100 mL or less), OSHA allows a simplified label, but the full label must appear on the outer packaging.

Warning: Never ignore label updates. Manufacturers are required to update labels and SDSs when new information becomes available. Always check for updates before use. If a chemical has already been released for shipment, the updated label may be provided with the shipment rather than on the container itself.

The Importance of Training

HazCom training isn't just a formality—it's a critical safety requirement. When new chemicals are introduced or new risks are identified, employers must provide updated training that covers:

  • Safe work practices
  • Emergency procedures
  • Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Pro Tip #3: If you don't understand a label or SDS, speak up and ask your employer immediately. OSHA protects your right to understand the hazards you face at work.

Your Right to Understand

If you ever have questions about chemical hazards, labels, or SDS information—ask. Understanding potential risks and protective measures is your right. Staying informed means staying safe.

Additional Considerations for Employers and Workers

Beyond labeling and classification, OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard also ensures that workplaces have clear safety measures in place, such as:

  • Proper Storage Guidelines – Some chemicals must be stored separately to avoid dangerous reactions.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Employers must provide and maintain the right protective gear for handling hazardous chemicals.
  • Emergency Preparedness – Workplaces should have clear procedures for chemical spills, accidental exposure, and emergency response.
  • Worker Rights – Employees have the right to refuse work if they believe they are being exposed to hazards without proper training or protection.

Pro Tip #4: Even if you don't work directly with hazardous chemicals, you should still be aware of the hazards present in your workplace. Unexpected exposure can happen during spills, accidents, or even routine maintenance.

For full details on OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, refer to 29 CFR 1910.1200 and consult your workplace's hazard communication program.