CSLB Law & Business ExamSafetyMedium
A subcontractor's crew works alongside chemical solvents supplied by another trade on a shared job site. Under Cal/OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, when must Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for these chemicals be accessible to employees?
- AReadily accessible during each work shift
- BOnly upon written request submitted 5 days in advance
- COnly if requested by Cal/OSHA during an inspection
- DOnly during the initial safety orientation
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Readily accessible during each work shift
The Hazard Communication Standard requires that SDS be readily accessible to employees during each work shift when they are in their work areas, not just during orientation or upon special request.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. There is no such advance-request requirement under the standard.
- C. SDS must be accessible at all times, not only during inspections.
- D. Access must be ongoing, not limited to orientation.
SDS Accessibility
Safety Data Sheets must be readily accessible to employees throughout each work shift in their work areas, not restricted to special occasions.
- Applies to all hazardous chemicals in the workplace
- Can be provided electronically if immediately accessible
- Employers must maintain SDS for every hazardous substance used on site
Memory trick: SDS should be as available as your hard hat