Perform OSHA Hazard Communication Inspection using eAuditor
OSHA Hazard Communication Inspection refers to an evaluation process conducted to ensure compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) (29 CFR 1910.1200). This standard is designed to protect employees from chemical hazards in the workplace by ensuring they have access to critical information about hazardous substances.
Performing an OSHA Hazard Communication (HazCom) Inspection using eAuditor ensures a streamlined and thorough assessment of workplace compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). Here’s how to perform the inspection step by step:
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Prepare for the Inspection
- Download/Create a Checklist: Use eAuditor’s pre-built Hazard Communication (HazCom) template or create a custom checklist to cover key areas such as:
- Written HazCom program.
- Labeling.
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
- Employee training.
- Chemical inventory.
- Understand OSHA Standards: Familiarize yourself with OSHA’s HazCom standard (29 CFR 1910.1200).
- Gather Tools: Ensure access to eAuditor on your mobile device and have required inspection tools like cameras and documentation files.
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Conduct the Inspection
Written Hazard Communication Program
- Confirm the workplace has a written HazCom program.
- Check if the program includes procedures for:
- Labeling.
- Maintaining SDSs.
- Employee training.
- Hazardous chemical inventory.
- Document findings in eAuditor, attaching photos or notes if gaps are identified.
Chemical Labeling
- Inspect chemical containers to ensure they have compliant labels, including:
- Product identifier.
- Signal word (e.g., “Warning,” “Danger”).
- Hazard statements (e.g., “May cause cancer”).
- Precautionary statements (e.g., “Wear gloves”).
- Pictograms and manufacturer details.
- Record missing or incorrect labels and attach evidence to your checklist.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Verify that all hazardous chemicals have an SDS.
- Ensure SDSs are:
- Current and formatted according to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).
- Accessible to employees in both electronic and hard-copy formats.
- Attach notes on any missing or outdated SDSs to the report.
Chemical Inventory
- Review the workplace’s chemical inventory.
- Confirm that it is:
- Complete.
- Updated regularly.
- Includes all hazardous chemicals used or stored on-site.
- Log discrepancies in the eAuditor app.
Employee Training
- Assess if employees are trained on:
- Identifying hazards from labels and SDSs.
- Proper handling of hazardous chemicals.
- Emergency procedures for spills or exposure.
- Use eAuditor to document feedback from employees or identify gaps in training.
Storage and Handling
- Inspect chemical storage areas for compliance with:
- Proper segregation of incompatible chemicals.
- Use of secondary containment.
- Adequate ventilation.
- Record observations with photos and comments.
Hazard Assessments
- Verify that the employer has assessed workplace chemical hazards.
- Confirm measures are in place to minimize risks (e.g., ventilation, PPE).
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Document Findings
- Attach Evidence: Use eAuditor to upload photos, notes, and videos directly into your checklist for comprehensive documentation.
- Highlight Non-Compliances: Mark areas requiring corrective action.
- Generate a Report: Automatically generate a professional report summarizing the findings, complete with photos and action items.
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Assign Corrective Actions
- Assign tasks to team members for resolving non-compliance issues through eAuditor’s task assignment feature.
- Set deadlines for completion and monitor progress in real-time.
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Follow-Up
- Reinspect as Needed: Schedule follow-up inspections to verify corrective actions have been implemented.
- Track Compliance: Use eAuditor’s analytics to track compliance trends and identify recurring issues.
- Store Records: Keep all completed inspections and reports in eAuditor’s cloud system for easy access during audits or OSHA reviews.
This process ensures your workplace stays compliant with OSHA HazCom standards, protecting employees from chemical hazards effectively.