Hazardous Chemicals (Hazchem)

A hazardous chemical is defined as any substance posing a potential threat to ones health. Duram escape masks provide effective protection from many hazardous materials.

Hazardous Chemicals Safety in the Workplace

In workplaces where hazardous chemicals are in use or a risk of exposure exists, employers have an obligation to create a safe working environment. Employers must:

  • create and manage safe working practices
  • make employees aware of any hazardous chemicals they may come into contact with.
  • make available and train in the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as Duram Escape Masks
  • properly label any a hazardous materials
  • create and manage emergency procedures
  • ensure that atmospheric density of a potentially dangerous gas does not exceed safe levels

For information regarding a particular chemical click on one of the following links.

Hazardous Material Data Sheets (MSDS)

For safety information regarding the use of any hazardous substance it is usually advisable to consult a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). In many countries a legal requirement exists to ensure MSDS€s are made available to those exposed to dangerous substances occupationally. To find information online regarding MSDSs visit http://www.ilpi.com/msds

Information about hazardous chemicals & employer obligations under United States law

Occupational Safety and Health Administration
This site contains a variety of publications detailing employer obligations and employee rights related to workplace safety. It is a good information source for employer wishing to learn more about compliance to current regulations and guidelines.

Environmental Protection Agency
This site contains information relating to Environmental Law including the Toxic Substances Control Act under which industrial chemicals are tracked and controlled in the United States.

Information about hazardous chemicals & employer obligations under Australian law

Australian Safety and Compensation Council
This Australian Federal Government site contains information relevant to all aspects of OH&S standards in Australia. The National Codes of Practice provide a useful OH&S reference for employers.
http://www.ascc.gov.au/

Union Safe
Union Safe is a website dedicated to providing information relevant to workplace safety. The section relating outlines relevant legislation and employer obligations such as employee education and correct use of personal protective equipment.

For emergency protection against hazardous chemicals make sure that Duram Escape Masks are at hand.