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HMIS® has a long history of compliance with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (Hazcom) and has proven its value to employers over the years. OSHA has commented favorably about its usefulness as a compliance tool. So why should users of older HMIS systems change over to HMIS® III?
Several significant changes have been made with the new HMIS® III system which have enhanced its “at-a-glance” warning features. Some of the definitions used to assign hazard ratings have been changed to bring those definitions into line with OSHA definitions rather than using NFPA guides. Older versions of HMIS used other criteria, particularly reactivity, that will no longer be supported either by HMIS® III or the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). Since this criterion is no longer supported, a better system was introduced.
HMIS® III, if used correctly, results in a better-trained, better-informed workforce that is equipped to handle hazardous chemicals safely.