Things You'll Need:
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
- OSHA handbook and instructional materials
- Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles and helmets
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Step 1
Train your personnel on the proper way to deal with hazardous materials by using the safety standards in the OSHA handbook as an instructional tool. The OSHA handbook specifically addresses the proper handling of all hazardous materials, and it is part of a government-regulated program to educate employers and employees equally. If your business uses any hazardous materials, it is your duty as an employer to inform your personnel about proper usage and handling.
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Step 2
Order material safety data sheets for every hazardous material used in your workplace. An MSDS on every single hazardous material used in the United States can be obtained directly from OSHA. The MSDS of each hazardous material should educate the user as to its proper use and handling, its potential danger and what to do if you are exposed to the material.
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Step 3
Explain the difference between "caution," "warning" and "danger" labels on hazardous materials when you train your personnel. "Caution" usually indicates that prolonged exposure to the material can be harmful, while "warning" usually indicates that medical attention should be sought after exposure. A "danger" label indicates that there is an immediate life-threatening condition if an employee is exposed to the material.
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Step 4
Educate your employees on how to use personal protective gear to deal with the handling or cleaning up of hazardous materials. Personal protective gear may include goggles, gloves, helmets or coats that must be used whenever an employee is in contact with hazardous materials. The use of personal protective gear is specifically noted on each MSDS.
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Step 5
Order MSDS and educational materials on how to deal with hazardous materials directly from the OSHA website (see Resources below). You can also order other educational materials, such as OSHA handbooks and posters, from the website.
