This episode of Hack Your Hazcom dives into practical strategies and insights for hazard communication with Sarah Henderson, founder of Henderson Solutions, a woman-owned firm specializing in hazardous materials management and regulatory compliance. Sarah, a nationally recognized leader in OSHA and hazard communication, shares her vision for the future of chemical safety, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, proactive chemical management, and the integration of new technologies. The conversation explores the evolution of safety data sheets (SDSs), the challenges companies face in managing chemical inventories, and the impact of digital innovation on environmental health and safety.
Topics Covered
Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) and Hazard Communication: Explanation of what SDSs are, their role in workplace safety, and the five key elements of a hazard communication program.
Regulatory Compliance: Overview of OSHA standards, the Global Harmonized System (GHS), and the importance of country-specific compliance.
Digital Innovation: The shift from paper to digital SDSs, the role of AI and automation in chemical management, and the future of digital product passports.
Challenges in Chemical Management: Keeping accurate inventories, adapting to new regulations, and ensuring staff are properly trained and engaged.
Transparency and Full Material Disclosure: The importance of chemical transparency, contract-driven disclosure, and initiatives like EPA’s Safer Choice label and Health Product Declarations.
Best Practices and Tools: Recommendations for moving beyond Excel spreadsheets to robust chemical management systems, and the value of involving all employees in safety programs.
Misconceptions and Cultural Shifts: Addressing common misunderstandings about hazard communication and the need for a proactive, team-based approach to chemical safety.
Future Trends: Preparing for new global regulations, the growing demand for transparency, and the integration of technology in chemical lifecycle management