Module 1: Regulations - International Association of Fire Fighters
Module 1: Regulations - International Association of Fire Fighters
Module 1: Regulations - International Association of Fire Fighters
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Student Text IAFF Training for Hazardous Materials: Technician©<br />
Hazard Identification<br />
OSHA defines a “hazardous chemical” as any chemical that<br />
poses a health hazard or a physical hazard to workers<br />
during use. Furthermore, OSHA defines the tems health<br />
hazard and physical hazard in the Hazard Communication<br />
Standard.<br />
“Health Hazard means a chemical for which there is statistically<br />
significant evidence based on at least one study conducted in<br />
accordance with established scientific principles that acute or<br />
chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees. The<br />
term ‘health hazard’ includes chemicals which are carcinogens,<br />
toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives,<br />
sensitizers, hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents<br />
which act on the hematopoietic system, and agents which damage<br />
the lungs, skin, eyes or mucous membranes.”<br />
“Physical Hazard means a chemical for which there is scientifically<br />
valid evidence that it is a combustible liquid, a compressed<br />
gas, explosive, flammable, an organic peroxide, an oxidizer, pyrophoric,<br />
unstable (reactive) or water reactive.”<br />
Hazard Communication protects worker safety by ensuring<br />
that chemical manufacturers convey to their customers and<br />
employers convey to their employees the hazards associated<br />
with using, working around and exposure to hazardous<br />
chemicals in the work place. This is achieved through a<br />
written program, labeling, Material Safety Data Sheets, and<br />
employer training. Put more simply, hazards are identified<br />
by the use <strong>of</strong>:<br />
• OSHA, EPA, and DOT markings, labels, and<br />
placards<br />
• Material Safety Data Sheets<br />
• Signs<br />
• Training<br />
One means <strong>of</strong> identifying potential health and physical<br />
hazards is through the labeling required by OSHA under<br />
the Hazard Communication (“Right-to-Know”) standard.<br />
Both the label and the MSDS include information on the<br />
hazards <strong>of</strong> the chemical as well as first aid information.<br />
Note that OSHA does not require an MSDS for an EPAregulated<br />
hazardous waste.<br />
<strong>Module</strong> 1: <strong>Regulations</strong> 1-85
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