How CHEMTREC Helps You Stay Compliant and Avoid OSHA Fines: A Response to the Second Most Cited OSHA Standard of 2024

In the world of workplace safety, few things are more critical than staying compliant with OSHA regulations. In 2024, the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS or HazCom), codified under 29 CFR 1910.1200, was ranked as the #2 most frequently issued citation under the OSHA Standards. With over 3,100 citations issued and nearly $5 million in penalties for violations related to chemical hazard communication, it's clear that many organizations are still struggling to meet the requirements. (Source)

Top Five Citation Categories Under the HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200):

•    Hazard Communication Program (§1910.1200(e)(1)): Failure to develop and implement a written HazCom program.
•    Employee Training (§1910.1200(h)(1)): Inadequate or missing training on chemical hazards.
•    SDS Accessibility (§1910.1200(g)(8)): Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) not maintained or accessible to employees.
•    SDS Development and Maintenance (§1910.1200(g)(1)): Failure to obtain or maintain SDSs for hazardous chemicals.
•    Workplace Labeling (§1910.1200(f)(6)(ii)): Improper or missing labels on chemical containers.

Why Hazard Communication Matters

The HCS requires that employees are informed about the chemical hazards they may encounter in the workplace. Compliance requires:
•    A written hazard communication program
•    Proper labeling of chemical containers
•    Accurate and accessible SDSs
•    Employee training on chemical hazards and protective measures

Failure to meet these requirements can result in hefty fines, reputational damage, and increased risk to employee health and safety.
So how can companies avoid becoming part of this statistic? The answer lies in proactive compliance, and that’s where CHEMTREC can be a crucial companion to your compliance requirements.

CHEMTREC: Your Compliance Partner

CHEMTREC is more than an emergency response call center; it’s a comprehensive compliance solution for companies handling hazardous materials. Here’s how CHEMTREC helps you stay OSHA-compliant and avoid fines:

1. SDS Solutions 

CHEMTREC offers professional SDS Authoring services that align with the latest OSHA HCS updates, including the 2024 revisions based on GHS Revision 7. Have the comfort of knowing CHEMTREC provides GHS labeling content to align with all CHEMTREC-authored SDSs, so your product labels are in accordance with OSHA’s requirements.

SDS Access and Distribution allows customers to access their SDS documents anytime, anywhere, on desktop or mobile devices and distribute throughout the supply chain. No online access? Not to worry- our dedicated telephone number allows 24-hour call center help! 

Did you know? OSHA estimates that over 90% of SDSs in the U.S. will need updates due to the latest HCS changes.  

2. HazCom Training

CHEMTREC provides an online HazCom training course that meets OSHA standards. This course covers everything from hazard classification to labeling and SDS requirements, helping your team understand and implement the HCS effectively. CHEMTREC Training Course

3. Emergency Response Services

CHEMTREC’s 24/7 emergency response hotline connects first responders with chemical experts, with rapid and accurate information during incidents. This service helps demonstrate due diligence and preparedness; key factors OSHA considers during inspections.

Final Thoughts

The fact that Hazard Communication remains the #2 most cited OSHA standard for the third consecutive year is a wake-up call. But it’s also an opportunity. By partnering with CHEMTREC, your company can move from reactive to proactive compliance – transforming hazard communication from a liability into a strength.

Don’t wait for a citation to take action. Let CHEMTREC help you stay ahead of OSHA.