Hazard Communication & Chemical Safety (HAZCOM/GHS) for Oil & Gas Workers

Course Summary

This course equips Oil and Gas industry workers with critical knowledge to safely handle, label, and store hazardous chemicals in compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). Learners will understand how to interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDS), recognize GHS pictograms, and implement effective hazard communication practices to protect themselves and their coworkers from chemical risks. The course emphasizes practical application through interactive scenarios and assessments, ensuring readiness to meet evolving regulatory requirements and maintain workplace safety.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Explain the purpose and scope of OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and its alignment with GHS.

• Identify hazardous chemicals commonly found in oil and gas operations and understand their associated risks.

• Interpret GHS-compliant labels, including pictograms, signal words, hazard, and precautionary statements.

• Locate, read, and apply information from the 16-section Safety Data Sheets (SDS) effectively.

• Implement proper chemical handling, storage, and labeling procedures to maintain compliance and safety.

• Recognize the requirements for employer HAZCOM plans and employee training.

• Select and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) based on chemical hazards.

• Respond appropriately to chemical spills, leaks, and exposure incidents using established emergency procedures.

Curriculum:

1. Introduction to OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and GHS
   Overview of OSHA’s HCS, its purpose, and the integration of the Globally Harmonized System.

2. Hazard Communication Program Requirements
   Employer responsibilities including HAZCOM plans, employee training, and chemical inventory management.

3. Chemical Hazard Classification under GHS
   Understanding hazard classes and categories, including health, physical, and environmental hazards.

4. GHS Label Elements and Their Meaning
   Detailed review of product identifiers, signal words, hazard statements, precautionary statements, and manufacturer information.

5. GHS Pictograms: Identification and Interpretation
   Explanation of the nine standardized pictograms and their significance in hazard communication.

6. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Structure and Use
   Navigating the 16-section SDS format and extracting critical safety and handling information.

7. Chemical Labeling Requirements and Compliance
   OSHA and DOT labeling requirements, including shipped container labels and workplace labels.

8. Safe Handling Practices for Hazardous Chemicals
   Procedures to minimize exposure and prevent accidents during chemical use.

9. Proper Storage of Chemicals in Oil & Gas Facilities
   Guidelines for chemical segregation, containment, and environmental controls.

10. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Selection for Chemical Safety
    Matching PPE to specific chemical hazards and ensuring proper use and maintenance.

11. Employee Rights and Responsibilities under HAZCOM
    Understanding worker rights to information, training, and a safe workplace.

12. Emergency Response to Chemical Spills and Exposure
    Steps for containment, notification, first aid, and cleanup in case of chemical incidents.

13. Hazardous Chemical Inventory and Documentation Management
    Maintaining up-to-date chemical lists, SDS accessibility, and recordkeeping.

14. Recent OSHA HAZCOM Updates and Industry Impacts
    Overview of 2024 OSHA HazCom revisions and their implications for the oil and gas sector.

15. Case Studies and Interactive Scenarios
    Real-world examples of HAZCOM successes and failures, with assessments to reinforce learning.