continued from page 35 An overview of the major changes to HCS: Hazard Classification— Chemical manufacturers and importers are required to evaluate the hazards for the chemicals they produce or import and prepare labels and safety data sheets to convey the hazard information to their downstream customers. The new, updated standard provides specific criteria for classification of health and physical hazards as well as classification of chemical mixtures. Labels—Chemical manufacturers and importers are required to provide a label that includes a harmonized single word, pictogram and hazard statement for each hazard class and category. Precautionary statements must also be provided. Safety Data Sheets—Now has a specified 16 section format, ensuring consistency in presentation of important protection information. Information and Training—To facilitate understanding of the new system, the new standard required workers to be trained by Dec. 1, 2013 (and ongoing since then) on the new label elements and safety data sheet format to facilitate recognition and understanding. There was a transitional period for manufacturers, importers, distributors and employers to comply with the new standard’s requirements. June 1, 2016 is the deadline for all employers to update alternative workplace labeling and hazard communication program as necessary and provide additional employee training for newly identified physical or health hazards. For more detailed information on the rule, visit OSHA's website www.osha. gov/dsg/hazcom/HCSFactsheet.html to access a fact sheet which outlines the changes and additions. There are also employee training materials on the OSHA website www.osha.gov/ Publications/OSHA3642.pdf
Additional OSHA issues to be aware of First Aid Kit OSHA requires
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that you provide “medical and first aid personnel and supplies commensurate with the hazards of the workplace. The details of a workplace medical and first aid program are dependent on the circumstances of each workplace and employer.” There are lots of options when it comes to first aid kits. You can gather the items on your own, use a company that specializes in industry-specific first aid kits or purchase a kit from your local branch of the American Red Cross. Don’t feel pressured by companies out there that may call you implying you are required to purchase their expensive kits. As far as first aid supplies being available, this is what the OSHA standards say: “In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available.” OSHA’s website says this about first aid kits: “First aid supplies are required to be readily available. An example of the minimal contents of a generic first aid kit is described in American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) Minimum Requirements for Workplace First-aid Kits. The contents of the kit listed in the ANSI standard should be adequate for small worksites.” This is what ANSI recommends: • Absorbent Compress - 32 square inches (1) • Adhesive Bandages 1" x 3" (16) • Adhesive Tape 3/8" x 5 yd. (1) • Antiseptic 0.14 fl. oz. (application) (10) • Burn Treatment 1/32 oz. (application) (6) • Medical Exam Gloves as needed (2 pair) • Sterile Pad 3" x 3" (4) • Triangular Bandage 40" x 40" x 56" (1) OSHA doesn’t enforce this standard recommended by ANSI, but considers it good suggestions for a minimal first aid kit. Remember to keep your kit in a waterproof, labeled container in a spot that is easily accessible! In addition
WR
OSHA Poster Employers must display the “OSHA Job Safety and Health: It’s the Law” poster #3165 (English version—there are versions available in many languages). This poster is included in WRA's Labor Law Poster Pack, but you may also download it from the OSHA website at www.osha.gov/ Publications/poster.html or on the WRA website www.wirestaurant.org Previous versions of this poster are still acceptable. Note: OSHA requires that reproductions or facsimiles of the poster be at least 8.5" x 14" inches with 10 point type. to the items listed above, you would probably want the following items in your kit as well: • An assortment of different size adhesive bandages • Cold pack • Scissors • Tweezers • Plastic biohazard bags • Breathing barriers • Elastic bandage • Alcohol pads • Basic first aid tips • Flashlight with working batteries • Blanket • Emergency phone numbers Make sure your employees know where the first aid kit is located. Check your kit regularly to make sure it is wellstocked. You don’t want to be caught unprepared if an injury occurs. The most common injuries in restaurants are burns and cuts. Emergency numbers should be displayed prominently in the workplace along with directions to the closest
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