Providing a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets;
Improving the quality and consistency of hazard information in the workplace;
Helping reduce trade barriers;
Productivity improvements for American businesses that regularly handle, store, and use classified hazardous chemicals;
Providing cost savings for American businesses that periodically update safety data sheets and labels for classified chemicals.
Historical note: The old HCS 1994 gave workers the right to know, but the new HCS 2012 gives workers the right to understand: this is a very important change in OSHA’s approach.