The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has finalized long-awaited updates to its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), bringing it into alignment with the 7th revision of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.
The final rule was published on May 20, 2024, and took effect on July 19, 2024. However, companies have a multi-year transition window to get their processes, labeling, and safety data sheets (SDSs) up to speed. Here’s a quick look at what’s changing and how you can prepare.
Compliance Timeline
| Material Type |
SDS & Labels |
Workplace Labeling & Training |
| Substances |
January 19, 2026 |
July 20, 2026 |
| Mixtures |
July 19, 2027 |
January 19, 2028 |
Major Changes to Expect
1. Updated Hazard Classifications
Flammable Gases
- Category 1A: Includes pyrophoric and chemically unstable gases.
- Category 1B: Covers other flammable gases with broader criteria.
Aerosols
- Renamed from “Flammable Aerosols” to “Aerosols.”
- Categories 1& 2: Flammable aerosols.
- Category 3: Non-flammable aerosols
Desensitized Explosives
- A new hazard class for explosives that have been modified
(e.g. wetted or diluted) to reduce explosive properties.
2. Labeling Requirements
Small Containers
- For containers ≤100mL, abbreviated labels are allowed, listing key information (e.g.,
product identifier, signal word, pictogram, manufacturer details). Full labeling must be provided on the outer packaging.
- Containers ≤3mL, only the product identifier and supplier information are required directly on the container. All other information must be on the outer packaging.
Bulk Shipments
- Bulk shipment containers (e.g., tanker trucks, railcars) may use electronic labels or shipping papers accessible to workers upon delivery.
3. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Updates
- Section 1: Must include a U.S. address and contact information.
- Section 2: Requires detailed hazard descriptions, including risks from physical changes during use.
- Section 3: Allows specified concentration ranges to protect trade secrets, aligning with Canada’s WHMIS.
- Section 9: Expanded to include new physical and chemical properties, such as particle characteristics.
4. Revised Definitions
Combustible Dust
- Defined as “finely divided solid particulates of a substance or mixture that pose a flashfire hazard or explosion hazard when dispersed in air or other oxidizing media.”
- Includes a choice of two standardized hazard phrases.
5. International Alignment
- Updates to hazard phrases and precautionary statements to ensure consistency with GHS Revision 7, Canada, and the EU.
Get Expert Help with GHS Compliance
Datacor’s regulatory experts are here to help you navigate these complex updates. From reauthoring SDSs to performing audits and delivering instructor-led training, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Book your FREE 15-minute consultation to assess your readiness and explore how Datacor can support your transition to GHS Revision 7.