Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Hazard Communication

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications You Have a Right to Know What hazardous chemicals you work with Their hazards and risks How to protect yourself from them

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Chemicals Are Everywhere Examples: –Cleaning solvents –Lubricants –Fuels –Pressurized containers

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Physical Hazards You May Face Flammable liquids or solids Combustible liquids Compressed gases Explosive materials Unstable materials Water reactive materials

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Health Hazards You May Face Acute –Short-term effects –Symptoms appear just after exposure –High concentration –Corrosives, irritants –Rashes, burns, respiratory irritation, poisoning Chronic –Long-term effects –Symptoms appear long after exposure –Low concentration –Neurotoxins, carcinogens –Cancer, lung or liver damage, allergies

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Ways Chemicals Enter the Body Inhalation: Breathed through mouth or nose Absorption: Touches skin or is injected Ingestion: Swallowed Ocular Entry: Through the eyes

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Hazard Communication Program Written plan for our facility Labels Material Safety Data Sheets Training –PPE, work practices and safe handling –Recognition –Emergency response

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Labels Check labels prior to use for: –Identity of chemical –Name and address of manufacturer –Appropriate hazard warnings All containers must be labeled Regard unlabeled containers as dangerous Do not remove labels

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Labeling and Marking Systems NFPA Diamonds –Blue = health hazard –Red = flammability –Yellow = reactivity –White = special hazard info. –Numbered 0-4 (from lowest to highest hazard)

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Material Safety Data Sheets Detailed information sheet prepared by manufacturer or importer Available for every hazardous chemical or substance Contains information that: –Enables you to prepare for safe day-to-day use –Enables you to respond in emergencies

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Information Provided on MSDS Chemical name Company information Hazardous ingredients Physical characteristics Fire and explosion data Health hazard data Reactivity data Special Precautions –Safe handling practices –PPE –What to do in case of spills or leaks

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Personal Protective Equipment Requirements found on labels or MSDS –Goggles, face shields, glasses –Gloves –Respirators & dust masks –Head protection –Foot protection –Aprons or full body suits

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications General Work Practices Use hazardous chemicals only as directed Prior to using hazardous chemicals –Inspect equipment for damage prior to use –Ensure adequate ventilation When using – Don’t smoke, eat, drink or apply cosmetics – Never smell, inhale or taste – Keep off of hands, face, clothing and shoes After use –Wash hands and face thoroughly with soap and water

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Know Safe Handling Procedures Refer to label & MSDS for info on: –Flammability –Incompatibility –Stability –Shock sensitivity

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Hazard Recognition Know likely emergencies ahead of time –Refer to labels or MSDS Emergency incidents: –Spills –Leaks –Fires –Explosions

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Spill & Leak Response Remove potential sources of ignition Evacuate the area Inform supervisor or emergency response team Stay away until given the “all clear” MSDS provides specific instructions

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications If Exposure Occurs If you are exposed: –Inhalation - move to fresh air –Eyes - flush with water for 15 min. –Skin - wash with soap & water –Swallowing - seek immediate medical help If a co-worker is exposed: –Identify hazardous chemicals in use –Refer to labels and MSDS for specifics

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Hazard Communication Plan Location of written HCP Designated HazCom Coordinator Location of MSDS’s

Copyright  Progressive Business Publications Summary You have a right to know Chemicals present both physical and health hazards Read the labels and MSDS –Follow PPE and special handling recommendations Emergency response –Notify supervisor –Know immediate first-aid response if contact with a hazardous chemical occurs