The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires the manufacturer of a hazardous material to conduct a hazard evaluation of that material before selling it. HCS also requires your employer to conduct a hazard evaluation before permitting the use of that material by its employees or on its premises. But did you know the HCS also requires you to conduct hazard evaluation before using a hazardous material? It's easier than it may sound.
Begin the evaluation by reading manufacturer-supplied product hazard information. You'll find this on product labels and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for that product. While HCS requires your employer to obtain the MSDS and make it accessible to you, things don't always go according to plan or regulations. If you make the effort but can't obtain the MSDS, have you satisfied the HCS requirements? The answer to that question is it's the wrong question. Only you can ensure your safety. Contact the manufacturer for a replacement MSDS.
