Mining Publication: Technology News 510 - HazCom Helper - OSHA Version: Compliance Tool For OSHA Rule 29 CFR 1910.1200

• Federal government
• Hazardous materials management
• Health and safety programs
• Regulations

Objective: Develop tools that companies can use to comply with 29 CFR 1910.1200. Background: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rule 29 CFR 1910.1200 (also known as the Hazard Communication Standard) requires all employers having hazardous chemicals in their workplaces to develop a written hazard communication program. Employers must list all these chemicals and describe how the company will address requirements to (1) label containers used to store hazardous chemicals, (2) obtain or develop Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for hazardous chemicals, (3) provide potentially exposed workers with information about and training in working around hazardous chemicals, and (4) provide appropriate protective measures. Approach: NIOSH personnel developed the HazCom Helper - MSHA Version to help mining companies write their HazCom documents as required by 29 CFR 1910.1200. Following many requests for the HazCom Helper from companies regulated by OSHA, NIOSH revised the program to create the HazCom Helper - OSHA Version to be more compatible with the specific needs of these nonmining companies. This software leads the person responsible for writing a HazCom plan step-by-step through its preparation. Prompts and suggestions are provided to help the writer fill in the proper information. The Help menu is also useful. Appendix A assists with writing a list of all hazardous chemicals at a site. The program can be saved and recalled at any time so it can be updated whenever necessary.