HazCom 2024 Reclassification
Deadline: May 19, 2026
OSHA's updated Hazard Communication Standard aligns with GHS Revision 7. New SDS formats, revised label requirements, and updated hazard categories take effect in weeks — not months.
What's Changing with HazCom 2024
GHS Revision 7 Alignment
OSHA's HazCom standard now aligns with the 7th revised edition of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS Rev 7), replacing the previous GHS Rev 3 baseline. New hazard categories and classification criteria apply.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Format Updates
All 16-section SDS formats must be updated to reflect new classification criteria, revised signal words, updated precautionary statements, and new GHS Rev 7 hazard categories for specific chemical classes.
Container Label Requirements
Labels must reflect updated pictograms, revised hazard statements, and new precautionary statements for reclassified chemicals. Outdated labels on existing inventory are not compliant after the deadline.
New Hazard Categories
GHS Rev 7 introduces new hazard classes for desensitized explosives, non-flammable aerosols under certain conditions, and expanded classifications for reproductive toxicants and respiratory sensitizers.
Employee Retraining Mandate
All affected employees must be retrained on new hazard classifications, updated SDS formats, and revised label elements before the May 19, 2026 deadline. Training records must be documented and retained.
Written HazCom Program Review
Your company's written Hazard Communication Program must be reviewed and updated to reference HazCom 2024 requirements, updated chemical inventory, and new training procedures.
Who's Affected
Any employer whose workers may be exposed to hazardous chemicals is subject to HazCom 2024 — regardless of industry. If you purchase, store, handle, or use chemicals in the workplace, you must comply.
OSHA Penalty Exposure
3-Step Compliance Checklist
Compile a complete list of every hazardous chemical in your facility. Verify each SDS is current, on file, and accessible to employees at all times. Flag any SDS that hasn't been updated to GHS Rev 7 format — these are your first compliance gap. Request updated SDS from each manufacturer or distributor.
Review every container label against HazCom 2024 requirements: product identifier, signal word (Danger or Warning), hazard statements, precautionary statements, pictograms, and supplier information. Any container that doesn't match must be re-labeled. Coordinate with procurement to ensure incoming chemical shipments carry updated labels.
Deliver updated HazCom training covering: new hazard categories under GHS Rev 7, how to read the updated 16-section SDS, changes to label elements, and location of SDS files. Document all training with employee names, dates, and content covered. Training records must be retained and available for OSHA inspection.
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