On May 20, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a final rule updating the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). This update aligns the HCS with the seventh revision of the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). The updated rule officially went into effect on July 19, 2024, bringing substantial changes that impact how chemical hazards are communicated in the workplace.
The HCS, first established in 1983, provides a standardized approach to communicating workplace hazards related to dangerous chemicals. It was last updated in 2012 to align with the third revision of the GHS. Now, with the adoption of GHS Revision 7, OSHA aims to further improve the effectiveness of the standard by enhancing the information on labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs). This update is designed to better inform employees about chemical hazards, increase worker protections, and reduce the incidence of chemical-related occupational illnesses and injuries.
To ensure compliance, manufacturers, importers, distributors, and employers must be aware of several critical updates:
- SDSs must be updated to reflect the new classification criteria for chemicals.
- Labels must be revised according to the new SDSs, ensuring they meet the updated requirements.
- New rules apply to labeling small containers, ensuring all hazardous chemicals are properly labeled, regardless of size.
- The handling of trade secrets in SDSs has been adjusted to comply with the new standards.
- New hazard classes and categories have been added, and consensus standards have been incorporated to enhance the communication of risks.
The final rule also allows for the electronic transmission of labels for bulk shipments, provided there is an agreement with the receiving party. Additionally, OSHA has provided a redline strikeout version of the regulatory text and appendices for stakeholders, available under the Highlights section on their website.
Important Compliance Dates
- For Substances: January 19, 2026
- For Mixtures: July 19, 2027
- Workplace Labeling and Employee Training: July 20, 2026, for substances and January 19, 2028, for mixtures
Given the scope of these updates, it is important to begin revising your SDSs and labels immediately. Early action will prevent last-minute compliance issues as deadlines approach.
IFO Group is here to help you navigate these regulatory changes seamlessly with our comprehensive Hazard Communication services. We ensure your SDSs and labels meet the latest OSHA standards, assist in updating your hazard communication programs, and provide training for your workforce on the new regulations. Additionally, we offer global compliance support, including analysis and authoring services for SDSs.
Learn more about the final rule HERE.
Contact IFO Group at info@ifogroup.com or at 832-403-2135 to ensure your business is fully compliant with the updated OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.
