OSHA aligns US workplace chemical labeling with Canada

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration said Thursday that it’s working to align its labeling and classification requirements for workplace chemicals with Canada’s.

OSHA said it will continue its partnership through the Regulatory Cooperation Council with Health Canada, which first formed in 2013 to keep collaborating on how to implement a globally harmonized system of classification and labeling.

{mosads}“We work in a global environment with varying and sometimes conflicting national and international requirements,” said OSHA Assistant Secretary of Labor David Michaels. “Through this partnership, OSHA and Health Canada will work together to reduce inconsistencies among hazard communication regulations and provide concise information to protect workers exposed to hazardous chemicals without reducing current protections.”

As of June 1, the Hazard Communication Standard will require chemical manufactures, distributors and importers to provide safety data sheets that include the manufacturer or distributor name, address, phone number, emergency phone number, recommended use, restrictions on use, emergency procedures, safe handling and storage guidance, and first aid and fire-fighting measures.