OSHA HazCom Compliance Deadline Approaches for Employers
The revised standard brings new requirements for hazard classifications, labeling and employee training as organizations adjust to OSHA’s updated chemical safety framework.
- By Danielle Naidu
- Oct 08, 2026
Employers have until Nov. 20 to meet the next compliance deadline under OSHA's updated Hazard Communication Standard, including requirements involving workplace labels, written programs and employee training.
OSHA updated the standard in May 2024 to align primarily with Revision 7 of the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals. The final rule included changes involving hazard classifications, labeling requirements and safety data sheets.
Chemical manufacturers, importers and distributors were required to complete evaluations and update labels and safety data sheets for substances by May 19, 2026. Employers now must make any necessary updates to alternative workplace labeling, their written Hazard Communication programs and employee training for newly identified physical, health or other hazards by Nov. 20.
Employers preparing for the deadline should confirm they have received updated safety data sheets from suppliers and review them for newly classified hazards. Workplace labels should also be reviewed to ensure they reflect current hazard information.
Written HazCom programs may need to be revised to incorporate changes in classifications and labeling procedures. Employees must also receive training on newly identified hazards before the deadline.
The revised standard includes changes to classification criteria for certain hazards, adds desensitized explosives as a hazard class and includes updated requirements for flammable gases, aerosols and small-container labeling.
Employers should also review requirements in states operating OSHA-approved State Plans because state compliance timelines may differ from federal requirements.
Additional deadlines apply to mixtures. Manufacturers, importers and distributors have until Nov. 19, 2027, to comply with the updated requirements for mixtures, followed by a May 19, 2028, employer deadline for related workplace labeling, written program and training updates.
About the Author
Danielle Naidu is assistant editor for Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.