What are chemical manufacturers required to evaluate for the chemicals they produce or import?

Chemical manufacturers are required to evaluate the hazards of chemicals to ensure safety for workers and consumers. This requirement stems from regulations under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and specifically relates to the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). The evaluation includes identifying any potential health hazards associated with the chemicals, such as toxicity, flammability, reactivity, or corrosiveness.

By assessing these hazards, manufacturers can develop appropriate safety data sheets (SDS) and labeling that inform employees and users about safe handling, storage, and emergency response measures. This proactive evaluation is essential in preventing workplace injuries and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

In contrast, while considering environmental impact, market demand, and production costs are crucial aspects of a chemical business's overall responsibilities, they are not the primary focus of OSHA's regulations regarding hazard evaluations. The emphasis lies specifically on understanding and communicating the hazards associated with the chemicals produced or imported.