| Finishing/Chemicals > Hazard Communication
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 Employers failing to provide employees with effective information and
training on hazardous chemicals is one of the most frequently cited
hazards during OSHA inspections. OSHA’s Hazard Communication standard,
1910.1200, requires employers to inform
their employees about the hazardous substances
they handle.
Develop a Hazard Communication or “Right-to-Know” Program. Hazard communication programs
have three important components: material
safety data sheets (MSDSs), training, and
labeling requirements.
MSDSs contain information on the health and
safety hazards of chemicals and recommend
appropriate controls. All chemical suppliers must
send an MSDS for each chemical a company
orders. Employers must make these MSDSs
available to employees at all times.
The Hazard Communication standard requires
employers to train their employees about the
hazards of the chemicals they handle. Employers
must train employees upon initial hire, after a
transfer, and when new hazardous substances are
introduced into the workplace. Employers must keep a written record of the training they provide.
Employers must ensure that all containers are
labeled with information about their contents and
about the health hazards of the substance.
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