Purpose
On May 20, 2024, federal OSHA announced in the Federal Register amendments to 1910.1200 Hazard Communication. The proposed changes would align the rule with the seventh revision of the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
This rulemaking is intended to provide a clearer hazard classification process to provide more complete and accurate hazard information on labels and safety data sheets; update physical hazard classes to better inform users on safe handling of explosives, aerosols and chemicals under pressure; and update precautionary statements on how to safely handle, store and dispose of hazardous chemicals.
Based on the federal rulemaking, the updated standard would require labels on small packaging to be more comprehensive and readable and makes changes to help ensure trade secrets no longer prevent workers and first responders from receiving critical hazard information on safety data sheets.
As a State Plan program, Oregon OSHA rules must be at least as effective as federal OSHA rules. Oregon OSHA is convening a Rules Advisory Group to review the federal rule requirements. The new U.S. Department of Labor requirements take effect
on July 19, 2024, but Oregon OSHA will have
until November 16, 2024, to complete its rulemaking process.
To participate
Changes to the Hazard Communication standard adopted by federal OSHA were filed with the Secretary of State on September 24, 2024, by Oregon OSHA. Public comments are currently being accepted and public hearings have been scheduled. For more information about the proposed changes, directions for submitting comments, and public hearing dates, please visit our
Proposed Rules page.
Note: On May 20, 2024, federal OSHA adopted changes to 29 CFR 1910.1200, Hazard Communication. On September 24, 2024, Oregon OSHA proposed to adopt those changes. However, on October 9, 2024, federal OSHA adopted additional corrections and technical amendments to the rule, and Oregon OSHA cannot adopt those changes without restarting the rulemaking process. Oregon OSHA intends to re-propose the changes to the Hazard Communication standard to include both the May 20 and October 9 adoptions. All comments made through Wednesday, November 6, 2024, will still be considered and included in the new comment period when Oregon OSHA re-proposes the Hazard Communication updates.
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