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Hazard Communication & Chemical Safety: Introduction to Hazard Communication (HazCom)

Our topic this month focuses on Hazard Communication, also known as HazCom. This standard is built on a simple principle: every team member has the right to know about the hazardous substances they may come into contact with during their shift. That includes how to handle them safely and what to do if something goes wrong.

Hazardous chemicals, ranging from cleaning supplies to fuels, industrial solvents, paints, and everything in between, are present in nearly every facility. These substances can pose serious risks if not identified, stored, and communicated properly. A strong Safety Culture depends on everyone understanding these hazards and following safe practices.

Here are a few tips to assist you with staying safe around hazardous chemicals:

Know what’s in your facility. All chemicals on site should be listed in a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which must always be available to all team members. If you are unsure about a substance, check the SDS or ask a supervisor for guidance.

Read the labels—every time. Before using any chemical, look at the label for hazard warnings, handling instructions, and required personal protective equipment (PPE). Never assume two similar-looking containers hold the same contents.

Please follow the signage and posted instructions. Areas with chemical storage or usage will have signs indicating risks—flammable, corrosive, toxic, etc. Respect those warnings. They’re there to prevent accidents before they happen.

Wear the correct PPE for the job. Depending on the chemical involved, gloves, goggles, respirators, or protective clothing (To name a few) might be required. Using the correct PPE is a key part of protecting yourself from chemical exposure.

Be sure to report damaged or missing labels. A label is your first line of defense. If labels are unreadable or missing, please treat the container as unknown and report it immediately. Don’t try to guess what’s inside.

Hazard Communication is more than paperwork, posters, and labels—it’s about making sure everyone in the facility understands the risks around them and knows how to act safely. It requires clear communication, consistent training, and a shared responsibility between leadership and staff.

Building a safer workplace starts with knowledge. When everyone knows what substances are in use and how to interact with them safely, injuries and exposure incidents decrease. Make it a habit to check labels, read SDSs, and ask questions if something seems wrong.

Thank you for being part of another episode of Warehouse Safety Tips.

Until we meet next time - have a great week, and STAY SAFE!

#Safety #SafetyFIRST #SafetyALWAYS #StaySafe #SafetyCulture #HazardCommunication #ChemicalSafety#PPE #HazCom #SDS #LabelItRight