Hazard Communication-Right to KnowOSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200

Hazard Communication GoalsRight to Know chemical hazardsPPEFirst aidLabelsMaterial Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Close Encounters With ChemicalsWe encounter chemicals almost every day.Filling your vehicle with gasoline.Cleaning the bathroomApplying pesticides or insecticidesUsing solvents or acids at workMany chemicals can cause injury or illness if not handled properly.

Right to KnowOSHA created the Hazard Communication Standard to help ensure your safety when working with hazardous chemicals.You have a RIGHT TO KNOW about the hazardous chemicals you use on the job and how to work safely with those chemicals.

Hazard Communication StandardChemical Manufacturers must:Determine a chemicals hazardsProvide labels and MSDSsEmployers must:Provide a Hazard Communication ProgramMaintain MSDSsTrain on hazardous materials

HazCom Standard (cont.)Employees must:Read labels and MSDSsFollow employer instructions and warningsIdentify hazards before starting a jobParticipate in training

Chemical Hazards-2 CategoriesHealth HazardsPhysical Hazards

Health hazards fall into 5 main categories:ToxicCorrosive or irritatingCarcinogenicReproductiveSensitizingHealth Hazards

Toxic-Toxic ChemicalsHave an effect on one or more body organ or system.This effect may be varied.It may damage the lungs, stimulate or depress the nervous system, or damage other systems, such as the kidneys or liver.

Toxic-Toxic Chemicals (cont.)Often the effect of a toxic chemical occurs at a site in the body that is different from where it entered the body.It may have been inhaled into the lungs but affect the liver.It may be absorbed through the skin and affect the brain.

Toxic-Toxic Chemicals (cont.)Workplace solvents (paints, thinners and solvent degreasers) are a common kind of chemical that may be either inhaled or absorbed through the skin and generally affects the central nervous system, liver and kidneys.

Toxic-Toxic Chemicals (cont.)The effect of a toxic chemical may develop immediately or may take months to years to develop.Toxic effects are dependent on the dose how much exposure you have over what period of time.Often you can safely be exposed to low levels over a long time period.

Toxic-Toxic Chemicals Route of EntryToxic exposures also depend on the route of entry.This is the way the chemical gets into the body and some ways are more efficient than others.

In comparing the different routes of entry:INHALATION of a chemical via the lungs, can take a chemical directly to the blood stream, as can an open cut or rash.ABSORPTION & INGESTION through the skin and gastrointestinal system are generally slower and less effective routes of entry.The eyes arent a very effective route of entry, but are very sensitive to many chemicals. PROTECT YOUR EYES!Toxic-Toxic Chemicals Route of Entry

Irritating or CorrosiveIrritating or corrosive chemicals are very different than toxic chemicals.And in many ways much simpler.They have essentially one effect, which is to irritate body tissues that they come into contact with.

Irritating or corrosive chemicals affect the tissues at the site they contact and are not transported through the body to cause effects at other sites.And the effect is generally immediate, or very nearly.

Irritating or Corrosive (cont.)

Acids and caustics are examples of irritant chemicals.It is important to keep them off your skin and out of your eyes.Irritating or Corrosive (cont.)

CarcinogensCarcinogens are chemicals that cause cancer.In many ways they act like toxic chemicals, exerting their effect on various body organs and systems and having an effect that is often long-term (occurring over a period of years).

Carcinogens are different than toxic chemicals in that their effect is less dependent on dose.Even a one-time exposure to some carcinogens can cause cancer years later.So preventing contact and exposure is especially important.Asbestos and lead are examples of carcinogens found in many workplaces and homes.

Carcinogens (cont.)

ReproductiveReproductive hazards affect the reproductive system directly (both male and female), depending on the chemical and its effect.They also, in some cases, affect the unborn child, particularly during the first 3 months of pregnancy.

Reproductive hazards act in some ways like carcinogens, requiring a relatively limited exposure for the effect to occur.Again, preventing exposure, especially during pregnancy, is the key. Reproductive (cont.)

SensitizingSensitizers cause an allergic-type reaction.Often this reaction takes the form of a skin reaction, such as hives, or a respiratory reaction similar to asthma.The reaction can be severe and tends to get worse over time.

With sensitizers, the reaction wont be initially present. It requires initial exposure to trigger it, after which a very small exposure may trigger the reaction.Again, controlling exposure initially is key.Sensitizing (cont.)

Controlling Chemical Health HazardsSo how do we control exposures?Primarily by remembering the routes of entry.You avoid inhaling chemicals by using a respirator if excessive airborne exposure will be present.And by testing the air to assess the exposure level.

You avoid swallowing chemicals by wearing the correct gloves and washing your hands before eating, drinking or smoking.You avoid skin absorption by again wearing the correct gloves (especially if you have a cut or rash) and washing up frequently.Controlling Chemical Health Hazards

If you get an irritating chemical on the skin or in your eyes, immediate first aid is critical.Flush your eyes in an eyewash for at least 15 minutes, keeping the eyelids open.Wash your skin thoroughly with water immediately.Controlling Chemical Health Hazards

Combustibles and flammablesExplosive and reactive chemicalsCompressed gasesPhysical Hazards of Workplace ChemicalsPhysical hazards of chemicals include:

Combustibles and FlammablesCombustibles and flammables catch fire and burn, sometimes explosively.They can be handled safely by remembering a few simple principles.

Control fuel by using safety cans, keeping containers covered, and using only the amount you need.Control ignition sources by grounding and bonding containers and keeping flames away.Combustibles and Flammables (cont.)To work safely with flammables and combustibles:

FuelOxygenIgnition SourceRemember the fire pyramid:Combustibles and Flammables (cont.)

Explosives and ReactivesExplosives and reactives present very specialized hazards.Explosive: Compressed gas cylinders; aerosol cansReactive: Mixture of bleach and ammonia; mixture of acid and solvents.The key with any chemical is to read the Material Safety Data Sheet (more in a minute) and know its safe handling.

Combustible GasesCombustible gases are a physical hazard because of the pressurized container.Keep them secured and capped when not in use.Transport them on an appropriate dolly.Use the correct regulator.

Container LabelingName of productPrecautions to take (summarized from the MSDS or the manufacturers original label)Label secondary containers with the following information (at a minimum):

NFPA LabelingNFPA-The National Fire Protection AssociationBlue - HealthRed - FlammabilityYellow - ReactivityWhite Other hazards or special handlingSCALE: 0 (No Hazard) to 4 (Extreme Hazard)

MSDS BookThe Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a document that is provided by the manufacturer of a chemical to describe the hazards of that chemical and the precautions to take in order to work with it safely.

Each Community that uses chemicals has their own MSDS Book for all chemicals utilized. If you are not familiar with the location of your MSDS Book or the chemical used in your Community, ask your Supervisor.MSDS Book (cont.)

Remember, when working with hazardous chemicals, make sure you are wearing the required PPE.PPE may include:Glasses or goggles and face shieldGlovesChemical ApronRespiratorFoot Protection

PPE Summary

Eyes: Flush with water for at least 15-20 minutes.Skin: Flush with water for at least 15-20 minutes (corrosive or solvent contact)wash with soap and water (lead or inorganic arsenic contact).Inhalation: Move to fresh airIngestion: Get emergency medical assistance.

First Aid Summary