Chemical Safety and Hazard Communication TBT
Good morning team,
Today we’re talking about Chemical Safety and Hazard Communication, a topic that affects nearly every industry — from construction sites and factories to laboratories and maintenance workshops.
Even if you think you don’t work with “dangerous chemicals,” you might be surprised. Paints, adhesives, cleaning agents, fuels, lubricants, welding fumes — all of these are chemicals that can pose risks to your health and safety.
The purpose of this talk is to ensure that every one of us knows how to recognize chemical hazards, understand hazard labels, use Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and handle chemicals safely.
1. Why Chemical Safety Matters
- Chemicals can cause burns, poisoning, respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even long-term illnesses like cancer.
- Many chemical hazards are invisible — you may not smell or see the danger.
- Accidents can also cause environmental damage and costly clean-ups.
- OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and GHS (Globally Harmonized System) require employers to inform workers of chemical hazards.
2. Common Chemical Hazards
- Flammable chemicals: Fuels, solvents, alcohol-based cleaners.
- Toxic substances: Pesticides, industrial cleaners, lead-containing paints.
- Corrosives: Acids, caustic soda, bleach.
- Reactive chemicals: Substances that can explode or react violently with water or air.
- Compressed gases: Oxygen, acetylene, propane.
3. The Hazard Communication System
The Hazard Communication System is based on the principle that workers have the right to know about the chemicals they are exposed to.
Key elements include:
- Chemical Inventory – A complete list of hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) – Detailed information on each chemical.
- Labels & Pictograms – Quick identification of hazard types.
- Training – So workers know how to read labels, use SDS, and work safely.
4. Understanding Chemical Labels & Pictograms
Under the GHS system, labels must include:
- Product identifier (chemical name)
- Signal word (Danger or Warning)
- Hazard statements (e.g., “Causes skin irritation”)
- Precautionary statements (e.g., “Wear protective gloves”)
- Pictograms to show hazard type
Examples of pictograms:
- Flame – Flammable
- Skull & crossbones – Acute toxicity
- Corrosion – Skin corrosion or eye damage
- Gas cylinder – Gas under pressure
- Health hazard – Carcinogen or respiratory sensitizer
5. Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Every hazardous chemical must have an SDS.
Sections include:
- Identification
- Hazard(s) identification
- Composition/information on ingredients
- First-aid measures
- Fire-fighting measures
- Accidental release measures
- Handling and storage
- Exposure controls/PPE
… and so on, up to Section 16.
Workers should know:
- Where SDSs are stored
- How to quickly find emergency information
- Which section to check for PPE requirements
6. Safe Handling Practices
- Read the label and SDS before using a chemical.
- Use the right PPE: gloves, goggles, respirators, aprons.
- Keep containers closed when not in use.
- Never mix chemicals unless trained to do so.
- Store chemicals in compatible, labeled containers.
- Keep flammables away from ignition sources.
7. Spill & Leak Response
- Alert others and isolate the area.
- Use spill kits if trained.
- Wear appropriate PPE.
- Report all incidents to the supervisor.
- Dispose of cleanup waste according to regulations.
8. Real-Life Example
A worker cleaning a machine with an industrial solvent did not wear gloves, assuming it was “just a cleaner.” The solvent absorbed through the skin, causing dizziness and nausea. He required medical attention, and the incident delayed production.
Lesson: Always treat chemicals with respect, even common ones.
9. Worker Engagement – Quick Q&A
- What are the three key pieces of information you should look for on a chemical label?
- Where can you find the SDS in our workplace?
- Why is it dangerous to mix bleach and ammonia?
10. Final Safety Reminders
- Every chemical has risks — some immediate, some long-term.
- Labels and SDS are your guides.
- PPE is your personal barrier.
- If in doubt, STOP and ASK.
Closing Words
Alright team, we started by saying that chemicals are part of our everyday work. The truth is, they can either be safe tools or dangerous hazards — and it all depends on how we handle them.
Respect every container, read every label, and never underestimate a chemical’s potential. Our eyes, skin, lungs, and lives are worth the extra caution.
Let’s keep each other safe — today, tomorrow, and every day.
Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay protected.
Hand and Power Tool Safety TBT
