An Occupational Safety & Health Administration rule that updates the current Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) became effective July 19, but with a deadline for compliance and implementation beginning in 2026. The purpose of the HCS is to ensure that information about the identities and hazards of chemicals used in workplaces is available and understandable, in order to ensure safety. OSHA first enacted this standard in 1983.
While the recent changes primarily address requirements that apply to chemical manufacturers, importers and distributors, actions by those upstream entities will affect employers’ responsibilities, as well. This LeadingAge article provides an overview, along with links to additional information.
