NEPN/NSBA Code: EBAA

MSAD #37 POLICY

HAZARD COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM
(FOR TOXIC AND HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES)

1.   GENERAL INFORMATION

 

      In order to comply with OSHA 1910.1200, Hazard Communication Standard, the following written Hazard Communication Program has been established for MSAD #37.

 

      All work units of MSAD #37 (hereafter known as the District) are included within this program.  The written program will be available in the custodians’ storage rooms and the Superintendent’s Office for review by any interested employee.

 

      A.  Container Labeling

 

The Maintenance Supervisor will verify that all containers received for use are clearly labeled to indicate:

·          the identity of the contents  (identity must match the corresponding MSDS);

·          appropriate hazard warnings (including routes of entry and target organs, if known);

·          the name and address of the manufacturer, importer, or responsible party.

 

The Custodian/Teacher in each section will ensure that all secondary containers are labeled with either an extra copy of the original manufacturer’s label or with the “central store’s” generic labels which have a block for identity and blocks for the hazard warning.  For help with labeling, please see the Maintenance Supervisor.

 

The Maintenance Supervisor will review the District labeling system every month and up-date as required.

 

B.  Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

 

The Maintenance Supervisor will be responsible for obtaining and maintaining the data sheet system for the District.  When toxic or hazardous substances are received without an MSDS, a letter, with a copy to file, will be sent to the supplier requesting the MSDS.

 

The Maintenance Supervisor will review incoming data sheets for new and significant health/safety information.  He/she will see that any new information is passed on to the affected employees.

 

Copies of MSDS’s for all toxic and hazardous substances to which employees of this District may be exposed will be kept in the custodians’ storage rooms and the Superintendent’s Office.

 

MSDS’s will be available to all employees in their work for review during each work shift.  If MSDS’s are not available or new chemicals in use do not have MSDS’s, immediately contact the Maintenance Supervisor.

 

C.  Employee Training and Information

 

The Maintenance Supervisor is responsible for the employee training program.  He/she will ensure that all elements specified below are carried out.

 

Prior to starting work, each new employee of the District will attend a health and safety orientation and will receive information and training on the following:

·          an overview of the requirements contained in the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, 1910.1200;

·          chemicals present in their workplace operations;

·          location and availability of our written hazard communication program;

·          physical and health effects of the toxic or hazardous substances;

·          methods and observation techniques used to determine the presence or release of toxic and hazardous substances in the work area;

·          how to use toxic and hazardous substances in the safest possible manner, including safe work practices and personal protective equipment requirements;

·          steps the District has taken to lessen or prevent exposure to toxic and hazardous substances;

·          emergency procedures to follow if they are exposed to these toxic and hazardous substances;

·          how to read labels and review MSDS’s to obtain appropriate hazard information; and,

·          the location of MSDS files and location of toxic and hazardous substances lists.

 

After attending the training class, each employee will sign a form to verify that they attended the training, received written materials and understood the District’s Hazard Communication policies.

 

Prior to a new chemical hazard being introduced to any section of this District, each employee of that section will be given information as outlined above.

 

The Maintenance Supervisor is responsible for ensuring that MSDS’s on the new chemical(s) are available.

 

2.   HAZARD CHEMICALS

 

      Further information on each substance can be obtained by reviewing MSDS’s located in the custodians’ storage rooms and the Superintendent’s Office.

 

3.   HAZARDOUS NON-ROUTINE TASKS

 

Periodically, employees are required to perform hazardous non-routine tasks.  Prior to starting work on such projects, each affected employee will be given information by the Maintenance Supervisor about hazardous chemicals to which they may be exposed during such activity.

 

This information will include:

·          specific hazards;

·          protective/safety measures the employee can take;

·          measures the District has taken to lessen the hazards, including ventilation, respirators, presence of another employee, and emergency procedures.

 

4.   INFORMING CONTRACTORS

 

It is the responsibility of the Maintenance Supervisor to provide contractors (with employees) the following information:

·          toxic and hazardous substances to which they may be exposed while on the job site; and,

·          precautions the employees may take to lesson the possibility of exposure by usage of appropriate protective measures.

 

The Maintenance Supervisor will be responsible for contacting each contractor before work is started in the District together and disseminate any information concerning chemical hazards that the contractor is bringing to our workplace.

 

Adopted:  December 20, 2000

 

 

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