Hazard Communication (HazCom)

We (MSHA) are establishing this final rule on "Hazard Communication (HazCom)" to reduce injuries and illnesses related to chemicals in the mining industry. HazCom requires mine operators to evaluate the hazards of chemicals they produce or use and provide information to miners concerning chemical hazards by means of a written hazard communication program; labeling containers of hazardous chemicals; providing access to material safety data sheets (MSDSs); and initial miner training. While most of the requirements in this final rule are substantially the same as in the proposed and interim final rules, portions have been revised in response to public comments. The most significant revision involves the HazCom training requirements. Initial HazCom training for current miners will be conducted under the HazCom final rule. Conforming amendments with requirements for subsequent HazCom training have been added to existing training standards. With the publication of this final rule, the mining industry joins other industry groups in requiring that chemical hazard information be offered to employees.