Hazard Communication Program
Learn about UC San Diego's Hazard Communication Program.
- Important – Read about how the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) incorporated into the revised federal Hazard Communication Standard in 2012 affects chemical use at UC San Diego.
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:
- Understand hazards associated with chemicals they work with through labeling and other forms of warning
- Provide access to Safety Data Sheets (formerly called Material Safety Data Sheets) and other risk assessment resources
- Receive safety training about how to minimize the risks associated with the hazardous materials they use, including personal protective equipment (PPE)
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.
- See the Chemical Hygiene Plan for details.
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
- State of California
- Guide to the California Hazard Communication Regulation (PDF)
- Hazard Communication Standard, California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 5194, adopted May 6, 2013
- U.S. Dept. of Labor, Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)
- UC San Diego
Contacts
- Shops and studios: Contact an EH&S General Safety specialist.
- Laboratories: Contact the Research Assistance Program specialist assigned to your area.