🧪
Hazard Communication
Know Your Chemical Hazards
⏱️
15 minutes
📚
Occupational Health Path
✓
OSHA 1910.1200 & GHS
Katie, Your Safety Guide
Welcome! Whether you work in an office, warehouse, factory, or healthcare facility, you likely encounter chemicals every day—from cleaning products to industrial materials. The Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom) gives you the RIGHT TO KNOW about chemical hazards in your workplace. In this module, you'll learn to read warning labels, understand safety data sheets, and protect yourself from chemical exposure.
Slide 2 of 15
What is HazCom?
The Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom) is an OSHA regulation that ensures employees have access to information about hazardous chemicals in the workplace. It's sometimes called the "Right to Know" standard.
📋 The HazCom Standard Requires:
- Chemical inventory: List of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace
- Labels: All chemical containers must have standardized warning labels
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Detailed hazard information for each chemical
- Employee training: Workers must be trained on chemical hazards
- Written program: Employers must have a HazCom program documenting compliance
Learning Objectives:
- Understand your right to know about chemical hazards
- Recognize GHS pictograms and label elements
- Know where to find and how to read Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Identify the three types of chemical hazards
- Practice safe chemical handling and storage awareness
- Know when to evacuate vs when to respond to spills
Slide 3 of 15
The Globally Harmonized System (GHS)
Universal chemical labeling
In 2012, OSHA aligned the HazCom Standard with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This created a universal language for chemical hazards worldwide.
✓ What GHS Provides
Before GHS: Different countries used different symbols, words, and classifications. The same chemical could have completely different warnings in different locations.
With GHS: Standardized pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and precautionary statements ensure consistent communication worldwide. A worker in the U.S., Europe, or Asia sees the same hazard symbols.
With GHS: Standardized pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and precautionary statements ensure consistent communication worldwide. A worker in the U.S., Europe, or Asia sees the same hazard symbols.
Key GHS Elements You'll Learn:
- Pictograms: Standardized hazard symbols (9 total) that appear on labels
- Signal Words: "Danger" (more severe) or "Warning" (less severe)
- Hazard Statements: Describe the nature and severity of the hazard
- Precautionary Statements: Recommend measures to minimize or prevent exposure
- Product Identifier: Name or number of the chemical
- Supplier Information: Manufacturer or distributor contact details
💡 Why This Matters to You
Even if you never handle chemicals directly, you need to recognize hazard symbols. You might walk past a chemical storage area, clean up a spill, or need to evacuate due to a chemical release. Understanding these symbols can save your life.
Slide 4 of 15
GHS Pictograms (Part 1)
Learn to recognize hazard symbols
GHS uses 9 pictograms to communicate chemical hazards. All pictograms are red diamonds with black symbols. Here are the first five:
💣
Exploding Bomb
Explosives, self-reactives, organic peroxides. Can explode or cause violent reactions.
🔥
Flame
Flammables, pyrophorics, self-heating, emits flammable gas, self-reactives, organic peroxides. Can catch fire easily.
⭕
Flame Over Circle
Oxidizers. May cause or intensify fire. Can make other materials burn more vigorously.
🗲
Gas Cylinder
Gases under pressure (compressed, liquefied, dissolved). Can explode if heated. May cause cryogenic burns.
☠️
Skull and Crossbones
Acute toxicity (fatal or toxic). Can cause death or serious poisoning through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact.
⚠️ What To Do When You See These
If you see ANY pictogram on a chemical:
- Read the label completely before using
- Find and review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Use required personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Follow all handling and storage precautions
- If unsure, ASK a supervisor—never guess
Slide 5 of 15
GHS Pictograms (Part 2)
The remaining hazard symbols
Here are the remaining four GHS pictograms:
⚠️
Exclamation Mark
Irritant, skin sensitizer, acute toxicity (harmful), narcotic effects, respiratory tract irritation. Causes less severe health effects.
⚗️
Corrosion
Skin corrosion/burns, eye damage, corrosive to metals. Can cause severe chemical burns and destroy materials.
☣️
Health Hazard
Carcinogen, mutagenicity, reproductive toxicity, respiratory sensitizer, target organ toxicity, aspiration hazard. Serious long-term health effects.
🌍
Environment
Aquatic toxicity. Harmful to aquatic life and ecosystems. Requires special disposal procedures.
⚠️ Multiple Pictograms = Multiple Hazards
Many chemicals have MULTIPLE pictograms. For example, a solvent might show:
- Flame (flammable)
- Exclamation Mark (irritant)
- Health Hazard (organ damage)
💡 Memory Tip
Red diamond = Danger ahead. Any red diamond symbol means "pay attention, follow precautions, use proper PPE." If you remember nothing else, remember: red diamond = hazardous chemical.
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Reading Chemical Labels
Six required elements on every label
Every chemical container in the workplace must have a GHS-compliant label with six required elements:
1️⃣ Product Identifier
Chemical name or number that matches the SDS. Example: "Acetone" or "Sodium Hypochlorite Solution." Allows you to find the right SDS.
2️⃣ Supplier Information
Manufacturer or distributor name, address, and phone number. Contact for questions, emergencies, or additional information.
3️⃣ Signal Word
"DANGER" indicates more severe hazards. "WARNING" indicates less severe hazards. Only one signal word per label.
4️⃣ Pictogram(s)
One or more red diamond symbols showing the type of hazard (explosive, flammable, toxic, corrosive, etc.). Quick visual warning.
5️⃣ Hazard Statement(s)
Specific description of the hazard. Examples: "Highly flammable liquid and vapor," "Causes severe skin burns and eye damage," "May cause cancer."
6️⃣ Precautionary Statement(s)
Actions to take to minimize exposure. Examples: "Keep away from heat/sparks/flames," "Wear protective gloves/eye protection," "IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water."
🚨 Secondary Containers Need Labels Too
If you transfer a chemical to another container (like pouring cleaner into a spray bottle), you MUST label the new container with:
- Product identifier (chemical name)
- Hazard warning (pictogram and/or hazard statement)
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Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Your detailed chemical information resource
A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a detailed document that provides comprehensive information about a chemical's hazards, safe handling, emergency response, and more. Every chemical must have an SDS.
📄 SDS vs Label
Label: Quick reference on the container. Shows immediate hazards and basic precautions.
SDS: Complete information (usually 6-12 pages). Detailed hazards, exposure limits, first aid, spill response, disposal, PPE requirements, and more.
Use both: Check the label before using. Read the SDS for detailed safety information.
SDS: Complete information (usually 6-12 pages). Detailed hazards, exposure limits, first aid, spill response, disposal, PPE requirements, and more.
Use both: Check the label before using. Read the SDS for detailed safety information.
Where to Find SDS:
- Physical binder: Many workplaces keep SDS in a binder near where chemicals are used or stored
- Online database: Your employer may provide access to an electronic SDS system
- Posted location: SDS may be posted on bulletin boards or in designated areas
- Ask your supervisor: If you can't find an SDS, ask immediately—access is required by law
✓ Your Right to Access SDS
OSHA requires employers to provide SDS access within one work shift of your request. You have the right to read the SDS for ANY chemical you work with or are exposed to. Your employer cannot deny this request or retaliate against you for asking.
⚠️ When to Check the SDS
Read the SDS:
- Before using a chemical for the first time
- If you experience symptoms (headache, dizziness, skin irritation, etc.)
- Before responding to a spill
- If emergency responders need information
- When selecting proper PPE
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The 16 Sections of an SDS
Standardized format for easy navigation
GHS standardized SDS into 16 sections in the same order. You don't need to memorize all 16, but know where to find key information:
1
Identification
Product name, manufacturer info, recommended use, restrictions
2
Hazard(s) Identification
KEY SECTION: GHS classification, signal word, pictograms, hazard statements. Most important for quick hazard overview.
3
Composition/Ingredients
Chemical ingredients, concentrations, CAS numbers
4
First Aid Measures
KEY SECTION: What to do if exposed (eyes, skin, inhalation, ingestion). Critical for emergencies.
5
Fire-Fighting Measures
Extinguishing methods, special hazards, equipment for firefighters
6
Accidental Release Measures
KEY SECTION: Spill cleanup procedures, containment, PPE needed
7
Handling and Storage
KEY SECTION: Safe handling practices, storage requirements, incompatible materials
8
Exposure Controls/PPE
KEY SECTION: Exposure limits (OSHA PEL, NIOSH REL), required PPE (gloves, respirator, eye protection)
9-16
Additional Information
Physical/chemical properties, stability, toxicology, ecological info, disposal, transport, regulatory info, other data
✓ Quick SDS Reference
Most important sections for daily use:
• Section 2: What's the hazard?
• Section 4: What if I'm exposed?
• Section 6: What if there's a spill?
• Section 7: How do I handle/store it safely?
• Section 8: What PPE do I need?
• Section 2: What's the hazard?
• Section 4: What if I'm exposed?
• Section 6: What if there's a spill?
• Section 7: How do I handle/store it safely?
• Section 8: What PPE do I need?
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Three Types of Chemical Hazards
Physical, health, and environmental
GHS classifies chemical hazards into three main categories. Understanding these helps you recognize the type of danger:
💥
Physical Hazards
Hazards based on physical/chemical properties. Can cause immediate physical harm to people or property.
Examples:
Examples:
- Flammable liquids, gases, solids
- Explosives
- Oxidizers
- Self-reactive substances
- Pyrophorics (ignite spontaneously in air)
- Compressed gases
- Corrosive to metals
☠️
Health Hazards
Hazards that affect health through exposure. Can cause immediate or long-term health effects.
Examples:
Examples:
- Acute toxicity (poisonous)
- Skin corrosion/irritation
- Eye damage/irritation
- Respiratory sensitization (asthma)
- Carcinogens (cancer-causing)
- Reproductive toxicity
- Target organ toxicity
- Aspiration hazard
🌍
Environmental Hazards
Hazards to the environment and ecosystems. Harmful if released into nature.
Examples:
Examples:
- Acute aquatic toxicity
- Chronic aquatic toxicity
- Harmful to fish, algae, aquatic plants
- Bioaccumulative (builds up in organisms)
- Persistent (doesn't break down easily)
⚠️ Routes of Exposure (How Chemicals Enter Your Body)
Inhalation: Breathing vapors, fumes, dust, mist (most common route)
Skin/eye contact: Direct contact with liquid or solid chemicals
Ingestion: Swallowing (usually accidental—contaminated hands, food, drinks)
Injection: Through cuts, punctures, or high-pressure equipment
Each route requires different protection. Read the SDS Section 8 for proper PPE.
Skin/eye contact: Direct contact with liquid or solid chemicals
Ingestion: Swallowing (usually accidental—contaminated hands, food, drinks)
Injection: Through cuts, punctures, or high-pressure equipment
Each route requires different protection. Read the SDS Section 8 for proper PPE.
Slide 10 of 15
Chemical Storage Awareness
Basic principles for safe storage
Proper chemical storage prevents accidents, fires, and dangerous reactions. While specialized staff handle storage, everyone should understand these basic principles:
- Store chemicals in designated areas only: Never store chemicals in hallways, near exits, in eating areas, or in unlabeled locations. Follow your workplace's storage plan.
- Keep containers closed when not in use: Open containers allow vapors to escape, increasing exposure and fire risk. Always recap immediately after use.
- Store flammables in approved cabinets: Flammable liquids must be in fire-rated cabinets away from ignition sources. Never store near heat, sparks, or flames.
- Separate incompatible chemicals: Some chemicals react violently if mixed. Never store acids with bases, oxidizers with flammables, or incompatibles together. Check SDS Section 7 and 10.
- Store at appropriate temperatures: Some chemicals must be refrigerated, others kept at room temperature. Never store chemicals in food refrigerators.
- Use secondary containment: Store liquid chemicals in trays or bins to catch leaks or spills. Prevents contamination of other areas.
- Keep storage areas organized: Chemicals should be easy to identify and access. Don't stack containers unsafely. Ensure labels face outward.
- Control access: Chemical storage should be locked or restricted to authorized personnel. Keep away from public areas.
🚨 Common Storage Mistakes
Never do this:
- Store chemicals alphabetically (may put incompatibles together)
- Store chemicals on high shelves where they can fall
- Store chemicals in direct sunlight or near heat sources
- Transfer chemicals to unmarked containers
- Mix different chemicals in the same container
- Store chemicals with food, medications, or personal items
Slide 11 of 15
Safe Chemical Handling Practices
Protect yourself during use
Basic awareness for working around chemicals:
- Read before you use: Always read the label and SDS before using any chemical—even familiar ones. Products can change formulations.
- Use proper PPE: Wear required personal protective equipment as specified in SDS Section 8. Don't skip PPE to save time—chemical exposure is instant.
- Work in ventilated areas: Use fume hoods, local exhaust, or outdoor areas when working with volatile chemicals. Never use strong chemicals in confined spaces.
- Use minimum amounts needed: Only dispense the amount you'll use immediately. This reduces waste, exposure, and spill hazards.
- Never eat, drink, or smoke: Don't eat, drink, apply makeup, or smoke in areas where chemicals are used or stored. Chemicals can contaminate food/drinks.
- Wash hands after use: Always wash hands thoroughly after handling chemicals, even if you wore gloves. Wash before eating, drinking, or leaving work.
- Clean up spills immediately: Don't leave spills for others. Small spills (< 1 liter, low hazard) can often be cleaned by trained staff. Large or hazardous spills require evacuation.
- Dispose properly: Never pour chemicals down the drain unless the SDS specifically allows it. Use designated waste containers and follow disposal procedures.
⚠️ First Aid Awareness
If exposed to chemicals:
• Eyes: Rinse with water for 15+ minutes. Use eyewash station.
• Skin: Rinse with water for 15+ minutes. Use safety shower if large area. Remove contaminated clothing.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. Call for medical help.
• Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting unless SDS says to. Call poison control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.
Always get medical attention after chemical exposure, even if you feel fine. Have the SDS available for medical personnel.
• Eyes: Rinse with water for 15+ minutes. Use eyewash station.
• Skin: Rinse with water for 15+ minutes. Use safety shower if large area. Remove contaminated clothing.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. Call for medical help.
• Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting unless SDS says to. Call poison control (1-800-222-1222) immediately.
Always get medical attention after chemical exposure, even if you feel fine. Have the SDS available for medical personnel.
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Chemical Spill Response
When to evacuate vs when to clean up
Not all spills are the same. Some you can clean up yourself (if trained), others require evacuation and professional response.
🚨 EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY If:
- Spill is large (more than 1-2 liters or larger than you can safely contain)
- You don't know what the chemical is
- Chemical is highly toxic, flammable, or reactive
- You're not trained in spill cleanup for that chemical
- Proper cleanup materials or PPE are not available
- Spill is in a confined space or poorly ventilated area
- Fumes are strong or people are experiencing symptoms (dizziness, nausea, headache)
- Spill involves a gas or pressurized release
- You feel unsafe or unsure in any way
✓ You MAY Clean Up Small Spills If:
All of these conditions are met:
- Spill is small (less than 1 liter for most chemicals)
- You're trained in spill cleanup for this specific chemical
- You know what the chemical is and have reviewed the SDS
- Spill kit and appropriate PPE are immediately available
- Area is well-ventilated
- Chemical is low hazard (not highly toxic, flammable, or reactive)
- You feel confident and safe
💡 Spill Kit Contents
Typical spill kits include: absorbent pads or pillows, absorbent powder or granules, disposal bags, gloves, goggles, instructions. Know where your facility's spill kits are located before you need them.
Quiz Question 1 of 3
Knowledge Check
What does a red diamond symbol on a chemical label indicate?
The chemical is safe to use without precautions
The chemical is hazardous and requires safety precautions
The chemical must be refrigerated
The chemical is expired and should be disposed of
Quiz Question 2 of 3
Knowledge Check
Where can you find detailed information about a chemical's hazards, first aid, and safe handling procedures?
On the chemical label only
In the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
By asking a coworker
On the manufacturer's website only
Quiz Question 3 of 3
Knowledge Check
When should you EVACUATE instead of cleaning up a chemical spill yourself?
Only if the spill is on fire
If the spill is large, you don't know what it is, or you're not trained in cleanup
Never - all spills can be cleaned up by any employee
Only during weekends when help isn't available
🎯
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