What were the major changes under the 2012 Hazard Communication Standard?

The major changes that we saw as a result of the 2012 revised Hazard Communication (HazCom) Standard include:

• Hazard classification: Chemical manufacturers and importers are required to determine the hazards of the chemicals they produce or import. Hazard classification under the new, updated standard provides specific criteria to address health and physical hazards as well as classification of chemical mixtures.
• Labels: Chemical manufacturers and importers must provide a label that includes a signal word, pictogram, hazard statement, and precautionary statement for each hazard class and category.
• Safety Data Sheets: The new format requires 16 specific sections, ensuring consistency in presentation of important protection information.
• Information and training: To facilitate understanding of standard workplace HazCom employee training must include information on GHS-style label elements and safety data sheet format and content, in addition to all of the other training requirements found at 1910.1200(h).