Quickstart

By using the following list you will be able to comply with the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) requirements for the Hazard Communication Standard, commonly called the Michigan Right to Know Law (MRTKL).

Implementing the Hazard Communication program can be divided into three steps:

  • Program Setup
  • Employee Training
  • Program Maintenance

Program Setup 

  • Identify the persons responsible for program setup, employee training and program maintenance.
  • Read the written MSU Hazard Communication Program
  • Make an inventory list of chemicals used in the workplace
    • The inventory list should include:
      • The chemical name
      • The product number
      • The manufacturer
  • Obtain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for the chemicals on the inventory from the manufacturers' website.  If you need assistance with obtaining an SDS, please contact EHS.
  • Post MI Right-to-Know Notice in the workplace indicating the location of the SDS.
  • Review the SDSs and identify tasks using chemicals which will require Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Refer to the PPE program for guidance in selection and the PPE training requirements.
  • Complete the PPE assessment forms. It is suggested that a copy of the forms be kept with the SDSs so they are readily available to the employee.

Employee Training

  • Have the employees view the MSU Hazcom Training Video.
  • Conduct site specific training, based on the PPE Assessments, which will include:
    • The physical and health hazards that may be present in the workplace.
    • The methods and observations used to detect the presence of a hazardous chemical.
    • The safe operating procedures in the work area that involve hazardous chemicals
    • Hazards of non-routine tasks
    • Hazardous contained in unlabeled pipes in the workplace.
    • How to reduce expose to chemicals by using the appropriate PPE and proper waste disposal
    • Where an employee can find:
      • The University's written hazard communication program
      • The Department's list of hazardous chemicals and SDSs.
      • The PPE assessments.
    • How to use the information in the written hazardous communication program, the labeling system and the material Data Sheets.
  • Document the training session by completing the RTK Training Documentation Form and having the employees sign the certification of RTK training and certification of PPE training forms if appropriate.

Program Maintenance

  • All new chemicals entering the work area must be included on the chemical inventory and a copy of the SDS must be obtained before the chemical can be used.
  • Post a copy of the MI Updated SDS Notice within 5 days of receipt of the new chemical.
  • If new chemicals enter the workplace the PPE assessments must be updated if there are any changes and the employees must be trained before they use the new chemical. Document employee training.

Hazard Communication