Phone:  (314) 362-6816
Fax:       (314) 362-1995
esafety@msnotes.wustl.edu

Hazard Communication

In the past, workers were not always told about the hazardous materials they might come in contact with on the job. In many cases, container labels and warning sheets did not give enough information about hazardous materials either. That is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued the Hazard Communication Standard. This regulation states that employees have a "Right to Know" what hazards they may face on the job and how to protect themselves against these hazards.

The employer who uses hazardous materials must:

· Provide a safe workplace for employees.
· Educate employees about the hazardous materials they will face on the job.
· Recognize, understand, and use warning labels and Material Safety Data Sheets.
· Provide personal protective clothing and equipment, and train employees how to use them.

The employee must:

CDC/NIOSH Hazard Communication