What does the HazCom standard require for chemicals?

The HazCom standard, also known as the Hazard Communication Standard, requires that chemicals be classified for potential hazards to ensure that employees are aware of the risks associated with the substances they may encounter in the workplace. This classification helps in assessing whether a chemical is hazardous and necessitates appropriate communication regarding its dangers.

By classifying chemicals, the HazCom standard mandates that labels and safety data sheets (SDS) provide essential information regarding handling, storage, and emergency response measures. This systematic approach emphasizes the importance of awareness and information dissemination to promote safety and health in work environments where chemicals are present.

On the other hand, identification using placards, storing chemicals in locked closets, and regulation by the EPA while relevant to chemical safety, do not directly stem from the specific requirements of the HazCom standard itself. Instead, HazCom focuses on the classification and communication of hazards to ensure that workers can recognize and protect themselves from potential risks.