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NEW 2020 Indiana Residential Code in Effect The new 2020 Indiana Residential Code, based on the 2018 International Resident Code is now in effect. The 2018 IRC, 1st edition is available for a free viewing only page of the code can be found at http://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IRC2018. Indiana amendments are available at http://www.in.gov/dhs or through Indiana PHCC. In the near future, ICC will print an Indiana book with the amendments included in the text. Note: The Indiana Plumbing Code has NOT changed. You may still use either the new Residential code or the 2012 Indiana Plumbing Code. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ OSHA'S NEW SYSTEM OF CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING OF CHEMICALS Don't forget that, as part of OSHA's efforts to bring the United States into alignment with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, a new HazCom standard is requiring employers, among others, to be in compliance with all modified labeling and the new Safety Data Sheets (SDS) by June 1, 2015. Among the changes is the conversion of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to the GHS-aligned Safety Data Sheets (SDS). However, the EPA has established an exemption for employers that essentially delays full compliance until June 1, 2016. Here are the requirements: By June 1, 2015, chemical manufacturers, importers, distributors, and employers must be in compliance with all the modified labeling and SDS provisions of this new standard. EPA has granted employers an exception to this part of the rule that affects employers like p-h-c business owners: All employers must update any alternative workplace labeling, update the hazard communication program (including the Safety Data Sheets), and provide additional employee training for newly identified physical or health hazards no later than June 1, 2016. Note: During this transition period (June 1, 2015 – June 1, 2016), employers may comply with the new federal law using either MSDS or SDS. More information: OSHA Fact Sheet – Hazard Communication Standard Final Rule From MSDS to SDS – GHS Brings Big Changes to Safety Data Sheets What's changing: For years, contractors, as employers, have been required to provide information and training to employees regarding the safe handling of chemicals in the workplace. Key to this safety program has been maintaining a compilation of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and training employees on label recognition. Some contractors keep MSDS records only on the products they use; others use generic MSDS "books," requiring them to verify every product in use is contained in the book but also resulting in unnecessary documents for products not in use, or possibly exposing a contractor to liability for products in use but lacking documentation. As part of the new standard, this long-standing program is transitioning to the new, globally harmonized SDS instead of the multi-format MSDS. The changes are designed to simplify communication regarding hazardous materials and promote international consistency. In short, the name is being simplified, and the format is being standardized for ease of training and notification of hazards. What you should have done already and how PHCC's Educational Foundation can help: By Dec. 1, 2013, employers should have trained employees on how to read, interpret, and use SDS and chemical labels. |
Contact InformationPHCC-NCIA
P.O. Box 474 Plymouth, IN 46563 Telephone: (574) 941-4473 FAX: (574) 914-4907 Email: phcc@phcc-ncia.com PHCC Links
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