Page 17
Recyclers News Press
Identify Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace
The Standard requires a list of hazardous chemicals
in the workplace as part of the written hazard commu-
nication program. The list will serve as an inventory of
everything for which a MSDS must be maintained.
The best way to prepare a comprehensive list is to
survey the workplace. Purchasing records may also
help. Employers should estab-
lish purchasing procedures that
result in MSDSs being received
before a material is used in the
workplace. Check your files
against the inventory you have
just compiled to ensure that an
MSDS exists for each poten-
tially hazardous chemical. If any
are missing, contact your sup-
plier and request one.
What is new is the format of the
MSDS changing to the globally
harmonized system or GHS
standard and becoming known
as Safety Data Sheets or SDS
which look similar to MSDS and contain the same in-
formation but will uniformly convey that information in
all languages augmented by the use of universally
accepted hazard pictograms.
Prepare and Implement a
Hazard Communication Program
All workplaces where employees are exposed to
hazardous chemicals must have a written plan
which describes how the standard will be imple-
mented in that facility. The plan does not have to be
lengthy or complicated. It is intended to be a blue-
print for implementation of your program--an assur-
ance that all aspects of the
requirements have been ad-
dressed.
The MSDS Library at
SueSchauls.com contains the
Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDS) for all fluids that are
evacuated from salvage vehi-
cles plus some commonly used
products. Check out the SDS
for Gasoline to see the new for-
mat! The resource is available
to all automotive facilities to
help facilitate a comprehensive
Safety Program.
In the coming
months and years through
June 2016 when the conversion from MSDS to
SDS is complete this library will be updated as
SDS become available for automotive fluids and
products.
Review and update your MSDS Inventory annually
and on an ongoing basis. One of the best housekeep-
ing jobs that can be conducted at the yard is to dis-
card unused products especially those that have
pulled out of a vehicle and are just collecting dust. Pre
-loaded safety binders are also available for $25 just
call Sue at 319-290-7843 or email
Hazard Communication
Safety Training
