General Policies
University Policy Number 1405
Subject: Written Hazard Communication Program
Responsible Parties: Provost’s Office, Safety Office and Department Heads
Procedures: Not Applicable
Related University Policies: None
I. SCOPE
This policy applies to all George Mason University faculty, staff, students,
visitors and contracted service providers.
II. POLICY STATEMENT
The Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH/OSHA) Standard 1910.1200,
mandates that all employers provide information to employees regarding hazardous
chemicals in the workplace.
All faculty and staff who are in at-risk categories of employment at the
University will be given appropriate information and instructions that will
enable them to avoid harmful exposure to hazardous chemicals. Students in
laboratory classes will also be given this information and instruction.
III. DEFINITIONS
At risk employee: An at risk employee is someone who may be exposed
to hazardous chemicals under normal operating conditions or in a foreseeable
emergency. Periodically, an employee may be required to perform non-routine
tasks such as maintenance operations, which could result in an exposure
to hazardous chemicals. Prior to beginning a hazardous non-routine task,
the employee must report to their immediate supervisor for information about
the hazards of all chemicals to which they might be exposed and protective
measures they can take to minimize potential exposure.
Hazardous chemical: A hazardous chemical is defined as "any chemical that is a physical hazard or a health hazard." These chemicals include combustibles, flammables, carcinogens, compressed gases and explosives. Excluded articles are listed in the Consumer Products Safety Act and include: pesticides, radioactive materials, food additives, distilled spirits, solid waste, tobacco products, and cosmetics. Procedures pertaining to those items are covered in other state and federal regulations and standards.
IV. RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Chemical Hygiene Officer. The Director of Laboratory Safety, in coordination with the University Safety Officer, will designate a Chemical Hygiene Officer responsible for the Written Hazard Communication Program. The Chemical Hygiene Officer will oversee departmental compliance with the Hazard Communication Program. The Chemical Hygiene Officer is responsible for the following duties:
1. Conducting the chemical hazard training necessary to protect at-risk personnel.
2. Providing technical assistance, answering safety questions, and assisting Departmental Safety Officers in developing appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
3. Inspecting chemical hygiene and housekeeping conditions through regular, formal laboratory evaluations including routine inspections of emergency equipment and fume hoods. Determining the required levels of protective apparel and equipment and performing exposure monitoring and evaluations as required.
4. Monitoring the procurement, storage, and use of chemicals used by the various departments within the University and coordinating the hazardous material removal program.
B. Departmental Safety Officer. Chairpersons/Directors of departments using hazardous chemicals will designate a Departmental Safety Officer who will work with the Chemical Hygiene Officer to implement the Program within the department. The Departmental Safety Officer need not be faculty, but must have a professional comprehension of the potential hazards, how to prevent accidents, and how to limit human and property damage in the event of a mishap. The Departmental Safety Officer, under the guidance of the Chemical Hygiene Officer and the Department Chair/Director, is responsible for the following duties:
1. Ensuring that appropriate training has been provided and that laboratory personnel know and follow the chemical hygiene rules. Assists in training regarding laboratory-specific operations and procedures.
2. Maintaining the Departmental Hazardous Chemical Inventory List and MSDS for the department.
3. Assuring that the necessary protective and emergency equipment is available and in working order.
C. Contractors. Contractors will comply with the VOSH/OSHA Standard.
Departments initiating contracts in which hazardous chemicals may be used
should include appropriate wording in the contract. The contractor's list
of chemicals should be forwarded to the Chemical Safety Officer before the
contract work is begun.
V. PROCEDURES
A. Departments will maintain a list of all hazardous chemicals used by the department. The list will include the identity, location, and approximate amounts of these chemicals, emergency points-of-contact, and any special handling precautions as appropriate. Updated lists should be sent to the Chemical Safety Officer on a no less that annual basis.
B. Containers and Labeling. Hazardous chemicals must be stored in proper containers and clearly labeled to provide an immediate warning to all personnel. All labels must be legible, in English, and prominently displayed on the container. Container labels must include:
1. The identity of the hazardous chemical(s).
2. Appropriate hazard warnings for employee protection.
3. Manufacturer's name and address.
4. Storage areas, pipes, and cabinets will have appropriate signage indicating the presence of hazardous chemicals.
When chemicals are transferred from the original container to a temporary container, the individual making the transfer will ensure that the temporary container is properly labeled with the chemical identity and appropriate hazard warning(s). Preprinted labels can be ordered from various distributors.
C. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). A MSDS provides comprehensive information regarding the hazardous chemical to facilitate its safe use. In the event of a mishap, the MSDS provides emergency information. Departments are required to keep a MSDS on file for every chemical listed in the Hazardous Chemical Inventory. A current MSDS must be readily available at the work site for all personnel using hazardous chemicals. The Laboratory Safety Office will assist in the procurement of MSDS.
D. Training. Personnel working with hazardous chemicals will be informed and trained concerning the dangers. The training will be conducted by the Chemical Hygiene Officer and the Departmental Safety Officer. Training will include the following:
1. A review of the VOSH/OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, the GMU program, and the physical and health effects of hazardous chemicals.
2. Labels and containers.
3. MSDS.
4. Work and safety procedures, personal protective equipment, and methods used to determine the presence or release of hazardous chemicals in the work area.
VI. COMPLIANCE
The heads of departments and activities shall assure that the procedures
set forth in this policy are followed within their area of responsibility.
VII. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPROVAL
The policies herein are effective May 4, 1993 and were revised August 8,
2003. This policy shall be reviewed and revised, if necessary, annually
to become effective at the beginning of the University's fiscal year, unless
otherwise noted.
Approved:
_______________________
Maurice W. Scherrens
Senior Vice President
________________________
Peter N. Stearns
Provost
Date approved: August 25, 2003