Hazardous Coummunications Training

Background

The Diocese developed its Hazardous Communication Program in compliance with the United States Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard, which was modified to align with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). The United Nations have been working to create and enhance a Globally Harmonized System for the classification and labeling of chemicals (GHS) that can be used by importers, distributors and manufacturers worldwide. The basic goal is to have an international standard and consistent terminology for hazardous chemicals.

Selected Positions

As an employer, the diocese is required to provide specific training to any employee working with hazardous chemicals. While we recognize the potential for any employee to occasionally use a chemical in the workplace, we require employees with the following position titles to participate in this training:

• Art & Science Teachers
• Cooks & Cafeteria Workers
• Custodial Workers
• Facility Managers & Engineers
• Housekeepers
• Maintenance Workers
• Nurses

Employees working with hazard chemicals and substances must receive training on the Haz Com 2012 standard, which including changes in labeling and safety data sheets. The goal is to provide a common and coherent approach to classify chemicals. This will benefit employees since it will:

• Reduce confusion and increase understanding of the hazards
• Facilitate training
• Help address literacy problems particularly due to use of pictograms

Previously, chemical hazards were evaluated in a more subjective manner. Now, chemicals must go through a specific, prescriptive classification process to determine which hazards are present and which hazard and precautionary statements apply. All chemicals now use the same criteria and terminology to describe any hazards, reactions and other precautionary statements.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS AND DOCUMENTATION

Diocesan employees, who have not attended one of the OSHA Haz Com Training sessions, must complete the following three steps by clicking on the words in bold.

1. Watch the Training Video by clicking the link below.
2. Download or print the attached supplement. In conjunction with the video, the diocese has created a training supplement which outlines what you need to know as an employee with a potential for chemical use. Click the link below to download the supplement.
3. Complete a short quiz. Request a quiz form by calling 703-841-2580 or emailing your contact information to riskmanagement@arlingtondiocese.org. You will receive a form to be completed and returned.

The Office of Risk Management will maintain written records of all employees who complete the training. Additional information is available by calling 703-841-2580.

Foreign Language Assistance

Parishes and schools with employees who are required to take this training, but do not understand English will need assistance both to watch the video and to read the supplement. The Office of Risk Management has a Spanish video and guide booklet which can be borrowed; however, we will rely on a supervisor or other designated person in the parish or school to communicate the information to their primary language.

Hazardous Communication Plan

The purpose of this plan is to inform our employees, students, and guests that The Catholic Diocese of Arlington is complying with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations 1910.1200. The plan explains WHO compiles a hazardous chemicals list, WHERE the safety data sheets (SDSs) are kept at each location, HOW to label each container, the role of the COORDINATOR, and WHY certain employees and possibly volunteers, need the training.