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Hazard Communication Program

Learn about UC San Diego's Hazard Communication Program.

Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requirement

The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Hazard Communication Standard, CCR, Title 8, §5194 requires employers to inform workers about hazardous chemicals they may be exposed to in the workplace.

UC San Diego's Hazard Communication Program applies to industrial (non-laboratory) workplaces and activities, such as shops, operations, maintenance, custodial, craft centers, theaters, studios, etc. The program ensures that employees:

Hazard communication program for laboratory workers

Cal/OSHA's Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories, CCR Title 8, §5191, known as the Laboratory Standard, applies to research and teaching laboratories. The Laboratory Standard recognizes the unique differences between laboratories and other workplaces that handle chemicals.

Implement the UC San Diego Hazard Communication Program

Departments with industrial workplaces using or storing hazardous chemicals are encouraged to designate an Area Safety Coordinator (ASC) with assigned safety duties to serve as a liaison with Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S).

To implement the Hazard Communication Program, the ASC will:

  • Maintain an inventory of hazardous chemicals used at their sites
  • Ensure chemical containers are properly labeled and stored
  • Ensure Safety Data Sheets for inventoried materials are readily accessible, either electronically or on paper
  • Confirm employees receive safety training and PPE appropriate for the hazardous materials they use, and that training records are kept

Use the Hazard Communication Program document as a training guide. Review and update the document and your program elements annually.

Hazard and warning signs and labels

Learn about hazard and caution signs and labels you may see at UC San Diego and what they mean:

Regulations and policies

Contacts

Questions? Contact the Chemical Hygiene Officer, (858) 822-1579.