Chemistry Council Meets on HazCom

According to the American Chemistry Council (ACC), OSHA’s revision of its Hazard Communication Standard provides many benefits, but the agency should consider modifications for its final rule that more closely conform the standard to the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals.

ACC expressed its concerns during a January meeting convened by the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB). OMB’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs received OSHA’s final hazcom standard for review Oct. 25, a process that typically takes about 90 days but was recently extended.

Although ACC says the rule would bring long-term cost savings and increase consistency of in-country regulations, the organization recommended OSHA extend the period for full compliance with the changes from three years to five, and consider a two year phase-in period for mixtures.

OMB has also been meeting with other organizations on the new rule.