| The Home page of ILPI's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Resource, the leader in SDS information since 1995! | |
| The history and philosophy behind this resource. | |
| A curated collection of books and reference materials concerning Safety Data Sheets and closely related topics. | |
| Paste your plain text SDS into the SDS-Demystifier, and it will be converted into a hypertext-enriched document with links to detailed explanations of each key term. | |
| An extensive list of frequently asked questions about Safety Data Sheets including regulations, content, compliance, and more. | |
| A humorous take on Safety Data Sheet jargon. Fill in the blanks on our entry form to generate a personalized Unsafety Data Sheet to share with your coworkers. | |
| Since 1995, we've maintained this massive curated list of the best places to find Safety Data Sheets on the Internet. | |
| Way more than a glossary, this hypertext-enhanced resource covers hundreds of SDS-related terms and expert knowledge. Each entry includes both the SDS relevance and links to additional authoritative resources. | |
| Archived results of Safety Data Sheet related polls taken by some of our millions of site visitors | |
| You are here! The OSHA regulations behind SDS regulations, including the inspection guidelines and over 400 official interpretations letters under the Hazard Communication Standard | |
| Commercial suppliers of SDS authoring and management software as well as cloud compliance services. | |
| Commercial companies that will create SDS's for your specific needs as well as SDS translation companies. |
Safety signs, banners, and scoreboards? Get yours at Safety Emporium!
OSHA Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Regulations
Current OSHA Regulations and Official Inspection Guidelines (HCS 2012)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200 - The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012)
- Regulates communication of hazardous materials in the workplace. Primary topics include Safety Data Sheets (SDS's), Labeling/Signage, and Training.
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix A, Health Hazard Criteria (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix B, Physical Criteria (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix C, Allocation of Label Elements (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix D, Safety Data Sheets (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix E, Definition of "Trade Secret" (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix F, Guidance for Hazard Classifications Re: Carcinogenicity (Non-Mandatory)
- CPL 02-02-079 - Inspection Procedures for the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012)
-
These guidelines tell OSHA inspectors what to look for during an inspection and when to issue citations. We've broken this valuable document into several smaller sections:
- Purpose, scope, references, changes, background and effective dates
- Inspection Guidelines
- Interface with other OSHA standards
- Appendix A - Table of Contents for Appendices A and B of the Hazard Communication Standard
- Appendix B - Hazard Classification Evaluation Procedures
- Appendix C - Evaluation of Carcinogenicity
- Appendix D - Petroleum Streams
- Appendix E - HCS Effective Dates
- Appendix F - HCS Pictograms and Hazards
- Appendix G - Referral Procedures and Sample Letter, Safety Data Sheet/Label Query
- Appendix H - Guide for Reviewing Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Compliance
- Appendix I - Other OSHA Standards Amended by HCS 2012
- Appendix J - Other Standards to Consider When Citing Chemical Exposures with No PEL
- Appendix K - Other Directives Changes due to HCS 2012
The previous version of this regulation and inspection guidelines is available at the bottom of this page.
OSHA Interpretation Letters for 29 CFR 1910.1200, the HazCom Standard
We've compiled 471 Official OSHA interpretations on the Hazard Communication Standard (and a few on related issues). As with the Standards above, we have made these much easier to read and use.
Some of these interpretations are now obsolete and refer to earlier versions of the Standard (1984, 1994) which have since changed rather significantly. Please be certain to interpret these documents in their historical vs current contexts. We are making an effort to review these interpretations and help the reader determine if they still have any validity, but this is just our opinion only and should not be relied upon as legal advice.
You can browse these by sequentially by title or perform a full-text search of all the documents using the search box at the top of each page in this section.
Interpretations made under the current version of the HazCom Standard (HCS 2024)
Interpretations made under the previous version of the HazCom Standard (HCS 2012)
- (01/11/2024) Emergency eyewash protection when exposed to 0.1 percent or greater formaldehyde
- (11/21/2023) HCS applicability to an industrial marker containing liquid paint or ink
- (05/03/2023) Exclusion of arsenic-treated wood from OSHA's Inorganic Arsenic standard
- (12/01/2022) Applicability of the HCS to Lithium Ion Batteries
- (11/09/2022) Transmitting bulk shipment labels by technological or other means
- (10/04/2021) Single HCS Compliant Shipping Label that includes DOT and/or State Requirements
- (08/13/2021) Use of generic safety data sheets and consumer products
- (06/23/2021) Coverage of lithium-ion batteries under the Hazard Communication standard
- (04/23/2021) Classifying cloth-like wipes saturated with a hazardous solution under OSHA 's Hazard Communication standard
- (03/31/2021) HCS compliant labeling of outer and inner packaging
- (03/30/2021) HCS listing of occupational exposure limits (OELs) in section 8 on a safety data sheet (SDS), and applicability of different exposures to pharmaceutical drugs
- (10/29/2020) OSHA standards applicable to medical and safety uses of pure nitrogen gas
- (10/28/2020) Clarification to the disclosure of chemical ingredients in SDS sections 3 and 8
- (09/11/2019) Precautionary statements in Hazard Communication standard
- (07/25/2019) HCS Labeling Requirements for Bulk Shipments of Small Packages
- (05/20/2019) HAZCOM's hazardous waste exemption as related to EPA's universal wastes
- (12/03/2018) HCS Labeling requirements regarding intra-plant and intercompany shipping
- (11/29/2018) Occupational Exposure to Beryllium Standard - Dissolvable Laundry Bags for Personal Protective Clothing
- (11/02/2018) Enforcement Policy for Respiratory Hazards Not Covered by OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits
- (09/18/2018) Hazard Communication Standard - SDS responsible party and hazards not otherwise classified
- (07/30/2018) EPA Risk Pesticides Subject to HCS Labeling
- (07/24/2018) Hazard Communication Standard - SDS Physical and Chemical Properties
- (06/12/2018) HCS pictogram labeling of DOT-39 Non-Refillable Cylinders
- (11/29/2017) Hazard Communication Standard - Globally Harmonized System Revision 5
- (10/02/2017) What constitutes an emergency response or incidental release of anhydrous ammonia
- (08/03/2017) Use of trade secret in lieu of known ingredient percentages on SDSs
- (08/03/2017) Clarification on the use of ingredient percentage and trade secret on SDSs
- (07/24/2017) Listing and disclosing Benzene as a human carcinogen on the label and SDS
- (06/20/2017) Labeling of Secondary Containers
- (05/09/2017) Separate SDSs and labels for dual components
- (05/05/2017) Labeling outer containers of chemical cleaning products while in storage.
- (03/23/2017) Hazard Communication Standard's (HCS 2012) June 1, 2016 effective date, 1910.1200(j)
- (03/23/2017) Safety Data Sheets for grinding wheels and abrasives
- (03/23/2017) Applicability of OSHA standards to formaldehyde exposures in laboratories
- (03/23/2017) Labeling small containers
- (01/12/2017) Hazard Communication Standard - Classifying 'Articles'
- (09/21/2016) Clarifications to CPL 02-02-079, Inspection Procedures for the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012)
- (08/22/2016) HCS 2012 labeling of refrigerant containers
- (08/03/2016) Labeling refrigerant cylinders
- (07/20/2016) Container labeling requirements for importer under HCS 2012
- (06/20/2016) Responsible party's address and phone number on SDSs and labels
- (06/10/2016) Requirements for labeling of products shipped for export to domestic and international destinations, under the revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012)
- (05/20/2016) By-product hazard information included in safety data sheet, Section 2
- (02/25/2016) Safety data sheets for custom blend fertilizers
- (12/14/2015) Labeling requirements for absorbent clay products in various packaging configurations
- (11/23/2015) HCS labeling of imports and exports
- (11/16/2015) Enforcement discretion for distributors on limited continued use of HCS 1994 labels
- (10/28/2015) Inspection Guidance for Poultry Slaughtering and Poultry Processing Establishments
- (10/15/2015) HCS requirements for RCRA and non-RCRA waste
- (10/02/2015) The labeling elements required on the safety data sheet (SDS) under the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012)
- (09/03/2015) Labeling of small containers in the laboratory
- (09/01/2015) Use of 1994 HCS labels on containers packaged for shipment
- (08/25/2015) Hazard communication pictograms; single color and economic feasibility
- (08/13/2015) The requirements for reporting safety data sheet (SDS) information under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (08/05/2015) Hazard communication effective dates and labels
- (07/28/2015) Hazard communication 2012-compliant labels and safety data sheets on shipped containers of hazardous chemicals
- (07/27/2015) Hazard communication effective dates and SDSs
- (07/02/2015) HCS 2012 pictograms for aerosol air fresheners
- (06/29/2015) Applicability of gas detector tubes under Hazard Communication 2012
- (06/29/2015) Label requirements between CPSC and HCS 2012 and aerosol products
- (06/29/2015) Definition of complex mixture
- (06/19/2015) Correct use of product identifiers on safety data sheets and labels
- (05/21/2015) Safety data sheets and label requirements
- (04/23/2015) Intentionally blank pictograms not allowed in HCS 2012
- (03/27/2015) Hazard communication requirements for commercial ink cartridges
- (03/24/2015) Requirement for Unknown Acute Toxicity Statement
- (02/10/2015) Practical accommodation for the labeling of small packages under the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (02/10/2015) Use of multiple countries' information on labels of hazardous chemicals
- (02/10/2015) HCS classification and labeling requirements for products containing crystalline silica
- (12/23/2014) The requirement for single or multiple SDSs
- (12/23/2014) OSHA jurisdiction over railroad employers with regards to the Hazard Communication standard (HCS)
- (12/23/2014) Acceptable use of pictograms on chemical labels under the revised Hazard Communication standard
- (12/23/2014) Applicability of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard for truck drivers hauling waste products that are exempt by EPA
- (11/27/2014) What is the correct grouping/placement of the six required elements for labels
- (11/10/2014) Labeling of secondary containers in laboratories under the Hazard Communication standard
- (11/10/2014) Clarification on combining hazard statements on labels under the hazard communication standard
- (06/13/2014) Clarification on effective date of SDSs replacing MSDSs
- (05/12/2014) CPSC versus HCS 2012 labeling requirements
- (03/04/2014) Application of OSHA's Amended Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012) to Combustible Dust (1910.1200)
- (03/04/2014) OSHA's Amended Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012) regarding Petroleum Streams
- (03/04/2014) OSHA's Amended Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012) about Hazards Not Otherwise Classified
- (03/04/2014) OSHA's Amended Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012) about classification criteria for Single Target Organ Toxicity
- (12/27/2013) Classification of Combustible Dusts under the Revised Hazard Communication Standard. [1910.1200; 1910.1200(d)]
- (12/02/2013) Interim Guidance on Enforcement of the revised Hazard Communication Standard
- (11/19/2013) List in SDS section 3 when the classification is based on mixture data
- (09/20/2013) Labels on ampoules 5 mL or smaller
- (09/11/2013) Practical accommodation for hazard communication labels on small shipped chemical containers
- (06/04/2013) NIST labeling of Small Packages.
- (05/13/2013) Electronic distribution of safety data sheets (SDSs) under the revised Hazard Communication standard
- (04/15/2013) Hazard Communication Standard labeling and SDS for laboratory nuclear standards
- (04/02/2013) Use of split entry concept under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012)
- (03/25/2013) Request for Interpretation of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard for Combustible Dust
- (03/22/2013) Manufacturer's name and address on the label of a chemical product under HCS 2012
- (01/31/2013) Employers responsibilities under HCS 2012 to classify hazards and create SDSs for products whose manufacturers are no longer in business.
- (01/31/2013) Clarification on labeling and SDS requirements under HCS 2012.
- (12/20/2012) Pictogram requirements for product labels under the revised Hazard Communication standard.
Interpretations made under the previous version of the HazCom Standard (HCS 1994)
- (11/21/2012) Clarification of OSHA safety requirements between a temporary staffing agency and its client.
- (08/24/2012) Labeling requirements for Diatomaceous Earth.
- (07/13/2012) Hazard communication of ammonia gas from new fuel additive in diesel trucks.
- (05/24/2012) MSDS Distributors.
- (01/09/2012) Dental office employers with one or more employees must comply with the OSH Act.
- (12/20/2011) Clarification on the applicability of the Hazard Communication standard DEF tank operations.
- (11/22/2011) Clarification of sampling and testing protocols for determining employee exposure to airborne contaminants.
- (11/17/2011) Requirement to list carcinogens on labels under GHS.
- (10/18/2011) Clarification of Hazcom provision intended to preempt conflicting state regulatory actions, but not tort claims.
- (06/15/2011) Requirement to name hazardous ingredients on MSDSs.
- (06/09/2011) Determination of a manufactured product as an article under the Hazard Communication standard.
- (05/19/2011) Applicability of the Hazard Communication standard to DEF tank operations.
- (04/15/2011) Requirements for including a manufacturer's occupational exposure limit (OEL) on a material safety data sheet (MSDS)
- (10/06/2009) Using the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) to Comply with OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard.
- (08/31/2009) Use of physical versus mailing address of the responsible party listed on the MSDS.
- (05/19/2009) Application of OSHA PEL for nitric oxide as 8-hr TWA to pregnant employees.
- (02/27/2009) Alleged deficiencies on an MSDS for one of Icynene's insulation products.
- (01/14/2009) Alleged deficiencies contained on a material safety data sheet (MSDS) for a spray-on insulation product (the Icynene Insulation System).
- (12/22/2008) Requirements of the HCS and the employer's ability to rely on a manufacturer's hazard determination.
- (12/22/2008) Requirements for labeling products that contain a nitrate or nitrite.
- (09/16/2008) Whether written programs may be kept solely in an electronic format.
- (07/31/2008) Requirements for labels and material safety data sheets for distributors of lumber.
- (07/17/2008) Chemical manufacturer's responsibility with regard to inorganic arsenic under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard.
- (05/23/2008) Storage and use of compressed gas cylinders; whether cylinder is considered an oxidizing compressed gas or oxygen cylinder.
- (04/18/2008) Clarification of the requirement to provide accurate and current hazard information on an MSDS.
- (04/14/2008) Request to provide list of corrosive materials and concentrations requiring use of emergency eyewashes and showers.
- (07/03/2007) Requirement for employer to assess potential hazards of handling trailer debris to provide necessary PPE and hazard communication information to affected employees.
- (05/03/2007) Manufacturer and distributor requirements for developing MSDS for hazardous products.
- (03/07/2007) MSDS requirement for occupational use of cosmetic Gentian Violet.
- (03/07/2007) Use of generic MSDSs written by third-party companies and employer responsiblities when using an online MSDS service.
- (01/25/2007) Responsibility of chemical manufacturers and importers to provide MSDSs to one or more establishments owned and managed by same employer.
- (06/12/2006) Operations that trigger the requirement for employers to provide washing facilities on construction jobsites under 29 CFR 1926.51(f)(1).
- (10/24/2005) Training programs for the Control of Hazardous Energy (LOTO) and for the Hazard Communication standard are not satisfied solely by merely providing employees written documentation.
- (04/27/2005) Requirements for maintaining Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) for coal including coal dust, fly ash, and silica dust.
- (04/14/2005) Requirements for maintaining material safety data sheets (MSDSs) for consumer art products and office cleaning products.
- (04/04/2005) Requirement to disclose all chemicals having scientific evidence that they pose a health risk regardless of concentrations present in the product on the MSDS.
- (02/08/2005) MSDS's must be provided to employees who package/process drugs for distribution into final form if they contain hazardous chemicals.
- (07/08/2004) Hazard Communication: classification of uninterruptible power source batteries and office chemicals as consumer products.
- (05/27/2004) Requirements for manufacturers, who are no longer in business or have discontinued a product line, to provide MSDSs and product information.
- (02/11/2004) Application of the hazard communication standard to latex paints containing less than 6% crystalline silica.
- (02/05/2004) Material safety data sheet requirements for experimental chemical mixtures that are shipped off-site.
- (10/16/2003) OSHA-recognized chemicals as carcinogens or potential carcinogens for Hazard Communication purposes.
- (08/27/2003) Current OSHA initiatives to improve quality of chemical hazard information provided to workers.
- (05/12/2003) Determination of airborne concentrations of methylene chloride; protection of employees covered by 1910.1052.
- (03/27/2003) Employee and employee representative access to MSDS; accompanying CSHOs on inspections.
- (08/26/2002) Standards that apply to cotton gins.
- (10/23/2001) Criteria for trade secret status.
- (03/23/2001) Storage of flammable liquids and corrosives in the same cabinet.
- (01/23/2001) Hazards of Inipol EAP22 used during cleanup of oil spills.
- (01/11/2001) Labeling requirements under the HAZCOM and Laboratory standards; use of safe needle devices.
- (01/19/2000) Responsible party for MSDSs and labelling of imported chemicals.
- (01/06/2000) OSHA policies concerning employees working at home.
- (12/07/1999) Employee access to MSDSs required by 1910.1200 vs. 1910.1020.
- (11/10/1999) LOTO of hydraulic systems; postal workers' exposure to hazardous material spills.
- (11/09/1999) OSHA will not currently pursue a national MSDS repository
- (11/01/1999) HAZCOM: Clarification of "article" and "hazardous substance"
- (10/20/1999) Using "stick-on" labels to meet the requirements of 1910.1200
- (06/03/1999) One MSDS may apply to multiple complex mixtures having similar hazards
- (05/28/1999) Applicability of the Laboratory Standard; MSDS and labeling requirements
- (04/21/1999) Chemical suppliers must ensure downstream flow of hazard information (MSDSs)
- (04/05/1999) Hazard communication requirements for diatomaceous earth
- (02/18/1999) Clarification of systems for electronic access to MSDSs
- (12/01/1998) Hazard determination; labeling of solid materials
- (11/13/1998) Format for Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
- (11/11/1998) Reporting threshold for non-carcinogenic mixtures on MSDSs
- (10/13/1998) Definition of a mixture under the Hazard Communication standard
- (10/13/1998) Using the telephone to back-up eletronic access to MSDSs
- (04/07/1998) The HCS does not apply to food items in a retail establishment
- (12/30/1997) Manufacturer and employer responsibilities when providing MSDSs electronically
- (11/19/1997) Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
- (11/19/1997) Carcinogen status of titanium dioxide relative to OSHA Standards
- (10/31/1997) Clarification of the requirements of the hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard
- (10/21/1997) A centralized repository for the electronic collection and dissemination of MSDSs
- (06/20/1997) Provisions of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (05/29/1997) A hazardous chemical is any chemical which is a physical hazard or a health standard
- (05/15/1997) Clarification of the definition of a hazardous chemical and the requirements for Material Safety Data Sheets
- (05/15/1997) Requirements for labeling portable fire extinguishers
- (05/15/1997) OSHA's regulations for chemicals used in the workplace, and in particular, glutaraldehyde
- (04/29/1997) Interpretation on the requirements of the hazard communication standard with regard to fiberglass products
- (04/04/1997) The government's handling of workers' reports of exposure to hazardous chemical in the workplace
- (02/06/1997) The dental industry's concerns regarding compliance with certain provisions of the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (01/30/1997) Material Safety Data Sheets
- (01/30/1997) Information required on Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
- (01/07/1997) Overlap between FDA and OSHA in the regulation of dental devices
- (11/05/1996) The NACOSH report regarding hazard communication
- (10/28/1996) OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requirements for Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
- (10/21/1996) Clarification of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard
- (08/22/1996) Clarification regarding the use of eyewash stations
- (07/15/1996) Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (06/17/1996) Requirements for Reporting Health Hazard Information on a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
- (05/28/1996) Consumer Products that Contain hazardous Chemicals
- (05/15/1996) Worker protection for employees incinerating hazardous waste on cement plant property
- (04/30/1996) Information on temporary workers, particularly those in the electronic assembly industry
- (04/30/1996) Information on Temporary Workers
- (02/28/1996) Hazard Communications Standard
- (02/16/1996) The coverage of the Hazard Communications Standard (HCS) to crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas condensate
- (02/14/1996) Standards and regulations applicable in the U.S. for sale, import, handling, and transportation of various chemicals
- (01/11/1996) Labeling of Latex
- (11/27/1995) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (11/20/1995) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, the requirements for MSDS
- (10/25/1995) The (PSM) for Highly Hazardous Chemicals Standard and its applicability to the specific scenarios outlined
- (10/11/1995) Clarification of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard with regards to the carcinogenicity of wood dust
- (10/06/1995) MSDSs for chemicals purchased prior to 1985
- (10/06/1995) Clarification of the OSHA reference to welding rods in a March 21, Memorandum to Regional Administrators
- (09/18/1995) Letter requesting that OSHA exempt animal feed ingredients from the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.1200, the Hazard Communication Standard
- (06/02/1995) Request for interpretation of Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (04/04/1995) Health effects of prolonged exposure to paint related materials
- (03/24/1995) Compliance with the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
- (03/15/1995) Hazard Communication Standard requirements for labeling fire extinguishers
- (01/31/1995) The harmfulness of photographic chemicals used in the C-41 color processing procedure
- (01/25/1995) The purpose of Material Safety Data Sheets
- (01/25/1995) Guidance on whether an inert gas in the non-compressed state represent hazardous chemicals under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (01/18/1995) The need for Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
- (12/28/1994) Companies who send their employees to a service station to fill up company vehicles
- (12/27/1994) Review of Manual for training personnel engaged in oil spill emergency response
- (12/13/1994) Abortion clinics do not comply with OSHA regulations and guidelines
- (12/05/1994) OSHA's hazard communication requirements for the wood products you sell
- (11/21/1994) HCS as it relates to the guidelines described in OSHA's 1986 publication regarding disposal of hospital wastes contaminated with cytotoxic drugs
- (11/17/1994) Interpretation for treated wood products in regards to paragraphs (f)(2)(i)-(iii) of the HCS
- (11/16/1994) Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) requirements for coatings on automobile parts that will be sanded and cut
- (10/11/1994) Container labelling requirements
- (10/06/1994) Labelling, training and material safety data sheet and the Hazard Communication standard
- (09/29/1994) Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) regulations for ozone
- (09/28/1994) A description of a retailer's responsibilities regarding material safety data sheets (MSDSs) and training under the HCS
- (09/21/1994) The paperwork requirement of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (08/31/1994) The acceptability of your "FAX-on-demand" system for providing copies of material safety data sheets (MSDS)
- (08/31/1994) Review and comment on generic labels and consumer information sheets for chromated copper arsenate (CCA) pressure-treated lumber
- (08/05/1994) The list of hazardous chemicals are required under 1910.1200
- (07/15/1994) The coverage of household products in a small group home
- (06/24/1994) MSDSs must be distributed to customer with shipment of chemical
- (03/31/1994) Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requirements
Interpretations listed under the inital version of the HazCom Standard (HCS 1984)
- (02/17/1994) Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) provisions
- (02/09/1994) Labeling provisions
- (02/03/1994) Employers' responsibilities towards temporary employees
- (02/02/1994) Labels and hazard warnings
- (02/02/1994) Hazard determination for carcinogenic compounds
- (02/01/1994) Hazard Communication Standard and Material Safety Data Sheets
- (01/03/1994) Release of hazardous chemicals from gas calibration bottles
- (01/03/1994) Hazard communication standard and pharmaceuticals
- (12/22/1993) The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard as they apply to veterinary drugs
- (11/04/1993) Hazard evaluation of mixtures containing established mutagens
- (09/13/1993) Requirement of name, address and telephone number on an MSDS
- (09/13/1993) FDA regulated drugs that pose a hazard would be covered by the HCS
- (09/07/1993) Requirement for additional employee training whenever new hazards are identified
- (08/31/1993) Employee exposure to hazardous chemicals while working around small sensors
- (08/13/1993) MSDS requirements for drugs
- (06/25/1993) MSDS requirements
- (06/14/1993) Labeling requirements of hazardous chemicals
- (05/15/1993) Fire extinguisher requirements of Hazard Communication Standard
- (05/11/1993) Hazardous substances found in veterinary practices
- (05/07/1993) MSDS requirements
- (04/01/1993) Meeting labeling requirements of hazard communication standard for slag wool
- (03/12/1993) Iron oxides as used in pigment coloring operations
- (02/25/1993) MSDS requirements for salt
- (01/27/1993) Definition of an "article" under the hazard communication standard
- (01/06/1993) Evaluation of a "generic" Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for copper/copper alloys
- (12/30/1992) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (12/29/1992) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (12/24/1992) Guidance on whether "patch test kits" are exempt from the labeling requirements of HCS
- (12/22/1992) Updated material safety data sheets
- (12/22/1992) Requirements of hazard communication standard for listing chemicals
- (12/16/1992) Alarm systems for employee evacuation and/or response
- (11/20/1992) The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard and how it applies in various industries
- (11/10/1992) Employee "Right to Know" chemical labeling
- (11/01/1992) Labeling and RCRA requirements and the HCS standard
- (08/28/1992) Requirement for hazardous chemicals
- (08/12/1992) Training requirements for maintenance of housekeeping personnel
- (07/28/1992) Spray painting relating to vehicle maintenance operations
- (07/10/1992) MSDS labelling requirements
- (05/15/1992) MSDS requirements in the workplace
- (03/03/1992) Hazard Communication and Mining Operations
- (02/06/1992) Acid gas cartridges containing hexavalent chromium
- (11/19/1991) Fiberglass and the HCS Standard
- (09/25/1991) Labeling Requirements for Crystalline Silica Products
- (09/23/1991) Worker Exposures to Volatile Amines
- (09/09/1991) Requirement to develop MSDSs for pharmaceutical products and controlled substances
- (09/06/1991) Requirement of Carcinogen warning label on textile glass filaments
- (08/15/1991) Applicability of the requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard to rubber dust byproduct sold by tire recapping company
- (08/15/1991) Used Tire Recyclers
- (08/15/1991) Hazard Communication and Consumer Products
- (07/25/1991) Labeling Provisions of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (06/28/1991) Regarding warning labels under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (06/11/1991) The Hazard Communications Standard as it applies to employees who prepare and administer drugs/medications
- (06/10/1991) Hazard communication in construction - general contractor responsibilities
- (06/10/1991) Training required for clean-up of hazardous substances
- (05/23/1991) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard as it applies to the janitorial service industry
- (05/15/1991) Outer Shipping Container Labeling
- (05/08/1991) MSDS required with initial shipment of chemicals used in humidification systems in office areas
- (05/08/1991) Labeling requirements with regard to containers of pesticides
- (05/06/1991) Regarding labeling requirements of the OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (04/04/1991) MSDS requirements for scrap materials
- (03/19/1991) Enforcement of the Hazard Communication Standard as it relates to "vegetable oil mist"
- (02/15/1991) Applicability of 1910.120(p)(2) to a RCRA TSD hazardous waste site handling PCB's
- (02/11/1991) Label requirements for crystalline silica
- (01/30/1991) Material Safety Data Sheet distribution to retail hardware store customers
- (01/30/1991) HCP requirements for employers at multi-employer worksites
- (01/17/1991) Chemical manipulation, production, multiple uses of chemicals in QC Labs
- (01/16/1991) Laboratory Standard's application in testing building products
- (12/21/1990) Potential release of hazardous substances from heat shrink products
- (12/06/1990) Material safety data sheets (MSDSs) under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (11/27/1990) Employee exposure to consumer products
- (11/19/1990) HCS applicability to hazardous by-products such as Ozone- generating operations
- (11/09/1990) Application of the Hazard Communication Standard to hydrotreated refined oils
- (11/09/1990) Container labeling requirements under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard
- (10/18/1990) Hazard communication program on site and standard covering electrical installation, maintenance or repair
- (10/15/1990) Hazard Communication Standard
- (10/12/1990) Requirements for providing MSDS information for carcinogens which are a residue in a mixture
- (10/04/1990) Material Safety Data Sheets for methanol, windshield washer concentrate, and windshield washer solvent
- (09/27/1990) Establishment of a Centralized Telephone Information Service for hazardous Waste/HCS Inquiries
- (09/12/1990) Hazard Communication Standard, pertinent to distributors of hazardous chemicals
- (08/22/1990) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (08/01/1990) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (07/23/1990) Regarding the application of the OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard to the labeling of fabricated products
- (07/17/1990) Hazard Communication Standard
- (07/06/1990) Interpretation on whether "an equivalent electronic information system" could be used in lieu of MSDSs to satisfy the HCS
- (06/27/1990) "Guidelines for the preparation of warning labels for carbon and graphite electrical products"
- (06/14/1990) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (06/14/1990) Concerning the conditions under which material data safety sheets are required
- (06/04/1990) Provision of computer generated or FAX transmission MSDSs
- (05/16/1990) Regarding labeling requirements order the OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (05/16/1990) Application of the HCS hazardous chemicals to consumers and employers
- (04/05/1990) Answers to questions regarding the training requirements of 1910.120
- (04/04/1990) Letter to Diesel Fuel Manufacturers
- (04/03/1990) Hazard Communication Standard
- (03/20/1990) HCS on Hazard warnings required on product labels
- (03/19/1990) Recommendations to Increase Availability of SAVES to the Field
- (03/13/1990) 29 CFR 1910.1200 as it applies to beauty salons
- (02/28/1990) Dole v. Steelworkers, Supreme Court decision
- (02/14/1990) Application of the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to Independent beauty salon Contractors
- (02/07/1990) The transmittal of material safety data sheets (MSDS)
- (01/29/1990) OSHA requirements for cleaning chemicals
- (01/24/1990) The hazard communication standard requirements for food or food additives
- (01/22/1990) Hazard Communication Standard
- (01/09/1990) Procedures a demolition and salvage constructor could employ in lieu of providing material safety data sheets for specific metals
- (01/09/1990) Provision of MSDSs for consumer products used in the workplace
- (01/05/1990) Definition of "article" under the HCS in reference to medical supplies and devices
- (12/28/1989) Clarification on OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (12/04/1989) Carcinogen labeling requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (09/01/1989) Hospital technicians required to attend HCS training and a clarification of coverage of pharmaceuticals under the HCS
- (08/31/1989) Whether labels and material safety data sheets (MSDS) must be provided to downstream manufacturers and processors for orlon or orlon blend yarns
- (08/21/1989) Enforcement of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard in the construction industry
- (08/07/1989) Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) Material Safety Data Sheet Requirements for the Construction Industry
- (07/31/1989) Maintenance of material safety data sheets(MSDS) and the written hazard communication program
- (07/31/1989) Hazard Communication Standard
- (07/28/1989) Material safety data sheet requirement of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (07/26/1989) Labeling requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (07/24/1989) OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard
- (07/20/1989) Requirements for downstream transmission of material safety data sheets (MSDSs)
- (07/17/1989) Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) Labeling Requirements for Industrial Thermometers
- (07/11/1989) The hazard warning labels attached to shipments of solder
- (07/11/1989) Clarification of the label requirements of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (07/06/1989) Labeling and material safety data sheet requirements under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (06/20/1989) Application of the Hazard Communication Standard to prescription drug products
- (06/05/1989) Interpretation of the HCS as it relates to laboratories and requirements with respect MSDSs
- (05/03/1989) HCS requirements applicable to oil and gas producers
- (05/02/1989) Consumer product exemption under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (05/01/1989) HCS does not require a particular labeling system's code on the MSDS
- (04/24/1989) MSDS distribution requirements for chemical manufacturers and importers, distributors and retail distributors
- (03/31/1989) Applicability of the HCS to office workers and copy machine operators
- (03/17/1989) Revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) Instruction, CPL 2-2. 38B CH-1
- (03/15/1989) Application of the HCS to certain products containing crystalline silica
- (03/03/1989) Distributor's and retailer's responsibilities for providing MSDSs
- (02/17/1989) Listing of decomposition products on MSDSs where they are present during normal use or only in the event of a fire
- (02/16/1989) Labelling requirements for chemicals transported to another plant of the same company under the HCS
- (02/15/1989) Distributor of health care products would be a "distributor" rather than a "retail distributor" under the HCS
- (02/08/1989) Applicability of the HCS to crystalline silica, when bound in a polymeric compound and silicone rubber elastomers
- (01/23/1989) Applicability of the HCS to an employer using portland cement
- (01/19/1989) Letter to Paul W. Davis from Thomas Shepich concerning requirements of the HCS regarding manufacturer provision of hazardous chemicals
- (01/13/1989) Response to request for OSHA endorsement of a distributor's program for downstream transmittal of MSDSs
- (12/22/1988) Applicability of the HCS to diesel exhaust emissions and diesel fuel
- (12/05/1988) MSDS distribution responsibilities for chemical manufacturers and importers, distributors and retail distributors
- (12/01/1988) Hazard determination criteria for corrosive liquids
- (11/17/1988) Applicability of the Hazard Communication Standard to stevedores in the containerized shipping industry
- (11/10/1988) Lift trucks or other machines found in the workplace are not containers for labeling requirements of the HCS
- (10/24/1988) Hazard determination and MSDS requirements under the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (09/20/1988) Crystalline silica considered a carcinogen under the HCS
- (08/17/1988) Exemption of hazardous waste samples sent to a laboratory for analysis from the Hazard Communication Standard
- (07/18/1988) Enforcement of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (06/30/1988) Copies of MSDSs and the written hazard communication program must be provided to an employee representative
- (06/27/1988) Overwarning on Hazard Labels
- (06/16/1988) HCS training for employees contracted to jobs working under the supervision of another employer
- (06/14/1988) Letter to Lawrence N. Curcio from Thomas Shepich concerning requirements of the HCS on labeling of IARC category 2B carcinogens
- (06/10/1988) Clarification of Material Safety Data Sheet Requirements Under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (05/12/1988) Material Safety Data Sheet Requirements Under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (05/11/1988) Employers are responsible for training new employees on the HCS
- (05/06/1988) Retraining employees who have been previously trained by another employer
- (04/21/1988) Material safety data sheets for liquid plant food
- (04/17/1988) Applicability of the HCS to alpha-alumina
- (04/11/1988) Definition of "distributor" and "retail distributor" as used in paragraph 29 CFR 1910.1200(g)(7)
- (04/10/1988) The employer must provide the 1910.1200 verbal training in a language that is comprehensible
- (02/24/1988) Requirements for labels in a language other than English
- (02/16/1988) Hexavalent chromium in photocopier toners
- (12/11/1987) Clarification of requirements for 40 hours of training.; Site specific training is required for employees who receive general training
- (12/07/1987) Coverage of wood dust under the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
- (11/23/1987) Standards applicable to the process of wrapping meat in plastic
- (11/20/1987) Applicability of the revised Hazard Communication Standard to the grain industry
- (11/02/1987) Need to supply a material safety data sheet for oil lubricated compressors
- (10/26/1987) Labeling and MSDSs for a stump router cutter head which has carbide tips on the cutter teeth
- (10/09/1987) Clarification of Material Safety Data Sheet Requirements Under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (10/05/1987) Additional requirements for distributors from the August 24, 1987 expansion of the HCS
- (10/01/1987) Retention requirements for superseded MSDSs
- (09/17/1987) Definitions of target organ and hazards of chemicals under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (09/17/1987) Application of the Hazard Communication Standard to art materials industry
- (09/10/1987) National Paint and Coatings Association's (NPCA) Health Effects Labeling Approach
- (08/25/1987) Presence of chromium in monocomponent photocopier toner is under investigation
- (08/18/1987) Applicability of the HCS to manufacturers of steel coils
- (08/07/1987) Cancer warning labels for formaldehyde and products containing formaldehyde
- (06/29/1987) The HCS's requirement for target organ effects on labels for shipped containers of hazardous chemicals
- (06/24/1987) IARC listing of boot and shoe manufacturing and repair as an occupation associated with cancer in humans
- (06/11/1987) HMIS for meeting labeling requirements of the HCS
- (06/01/1987) Labeling of Lead Chromate Under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (05/21/1987) HMIS use in meeting the in-plant labeling requirements of the HCS
- (05/04/1987) Evaluation of labeling system which was designed to meet the requirements of the HCS
- (01/20/1987) Clarification of the terms "appropriate hazard warning" and "mandatory"
- (11/25/1986) Interpretation given in the Federal Register on December 20, 1985 describing mild petroleum hydrotreatment is appropriate
- (11/10/1986) Requirements for target organ effects on labels under the Hazard Communication standard
- (10/25/1986) Interpretation on availability of emergency information under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (10/15/1986) Target organ labeling requirements for shipped containers
- (10/02/1986) High speed cobalt steel drill bits evaluated as a "article" under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (09/26/1986) General information related to the Hazard Communication standard
- (09/16/1986) Hazard Communication Standard as it applies to wholesalers and distributors of hazardous chemicals
- (09/09/1986) Labeling of Formaldehyde-Containing Products Under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (08/18/1986) Requirements for listing multiple exposure limits on MSDSs under the HCS
- (08/13/1986) Explanation of HCS labeling requirements to the National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers
- (08/11/1986) Labeling requirements for bulk shipments of metallic scrap under the HCS
- (08/11/1986) Applicability of HCS standard to shipment of truck parts
- (08/05/1986) Establishing carcinogenicity of sodium and potassium salts of chromate and dichromate
- (07/02/1986) Requirements under the Hazard Communication standard for visibility of labels on shipments of palletized bags
- (07/02/1986) Requirements for fingerprint powders containing carbon black under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (06/30/1986) Application of the HCS to Borax Powered Hand Soap
- (06/17/1986) Application of the Hazard Communication standard to waste oils
- (05/28/1986) Indication of Carcinogenicity on Material Safety Data Sheets
- (05/23/1986) Application of the HCS to non-manufacturing scrap dealers who collect waste metal for resale
- (05/06/1986) Criteria for severe solvent refinement under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (05/01/1986) Applicability of the Hazard Communication standard to pesticides
- (04/30/1986) Labeling requirements for containers of polyvinyl chloride
- (04/08/1986) MSDS requirements for non-domestic shipments
- (04/08/1986) Requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard as it applies to the metal chips and other scrap material
- (04/07/1986) Labeling and MSDS requirements for product containing trace quantities of ethylene oxide.; Criterion that must be satisfied in order to assert that a product or operation is exempt for the EtO Standard
- (03/21/1986) Application of the HCS to flavor extracts
- (03/20/1986) Applicability of the HCS to castings
- (03/17/1986) Application of the Hazard Communication Standard to lift trucks
- (03/12/1986) Hazard evaluation requirements under the Hazard Communication standard
- (03/11/1986) MSDS and labeling requirements for copper or aluminum wire or metal products
- (03/04/1986) Classification of foundry products such as castings in relation to the HCS
- (02/14/1986) MSDS should be distributed for welding wire containing hazardous chemicals
- (01/31/1986) Hazard Communication Standard inspections
- (01/29/1986) Interpretation of the Hazard Communication standard as it applies to mixtures
- (01/16/1986) Application of the Hazard Communication standard to a nuisance particulate
- (01/15/1986) Coverage of steel, aluminum, and other metals under the Hazard Communication Standard
- (01/13/1986) Maintaining MSDSs on a computer data base
- (01/03/1986) Conformation of labeling requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (12/10/1985) Preparing a Material Safety Data Sheet under the trade secret provisions of the Hazard Communication Standard
- (12/02/1985) Inspection procedures for the Hazard Communication Standard
- (10/04/1985) Generic MSDSs to cover different products that contain the same chemicals in different proportions
- (09/25/1985) There is no requirement for employers to respond to requests for material safety data sheets (MSDS) for old products
- (09/04/1985) Twenty-four hour coverage for emergency telephone numbers
- (09/04/1985) MSDS and label requirements for an antiknock compound containing EDB, EDC, and tetraethyl lead
- (07/17/1985) Response to a request that foundry castings be classified as articles under the Hazard Communication standard
- (07/09/1985) MSDS requirements for complex mixtures with similar hazards
- (03/04/1985) Position on MSDS format for compliance with the Hazard Communication standard
- (09/25/1984) Requirements for alternate warning methods, delays between filling and labeling a chemical container, and label identification of mixtures under HCS
- (09/14/1984) Relationship between the hazard communication standard and the Department of Defense's requirement for safeguarding classified information
- (08/01/1984) MSDS requirements for products that are composed of a mixture of non-interacting chemicals
Previous (Obsolete) Versions of HazCom Regulations and Official Inspection Guidelines
The 1994 HazCom Standard (HCS 1994) has been superseded by the HCS 2012. The documents provided below are for historical purposes only and should not be relied upon for current regulatory advice.
Your employees can stay informed and safety-ready with right to know stations and labels from Safety Emporium.
- A comparison of the 1994 and 2012 HCS with strikeouts and additions in red and green, respectively, as well as some additional commentary.
- 29 CFR 1910.1200 - The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 1994)
- Regulates communication of hazardous materials in the workplace. Primary topics include Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS's), Labeling/Signage, and Training.
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix A, Health Hazard Definitions (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix B, Hazard Determination (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix C, Information sources (Advisory, Retracted)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix D, Definition of "Trade Secret" (Mandatory)
- 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix E, Guidelines for Employer Compliance (Advisory)
- CPL 2-2.38D - Inspection Procedures for the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 1994)
-
These guidelines tell OSHA inspectors what to look for during an inspection and when to issue citations. We've broken this valuable document into several smaller sections:
- Background, Scope and Application, including inspection and citation guidelines
- Appendix A - Clarifications and Interpretations of the HCS.
- Appendix B - Sample letter for a label or MSDS query to a manufacturer.
- Appendix C - Hazard evaluation procedures.
- Appendix D - Guide for reviewing MSDS completeness.
- Appendix E - Sample written Hazard Communication Programs. These are meant as starting points to help you comply with the HCS.