DLLR's Division of Labor and Industry |
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Notice to Employees - Right-to-Know - Access to Information About
Hazardous and Toxic Substances - Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) |
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NOTICE TO EMPLOYEES
YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO KNOW!
IT'S THE LAW!
The Access to Information About Hazardous and Toxic Substances Act,
also known as the "Right-to-Know" law, gives
employees a right to learn about chemical hazards in the
workplace and how to work safely with these materials.
The law requires employers to prepare a list of all hazardous and toxic
substances used in the workplace and to obtain material
safety data sheets (MSDS) for these substances. Employers
also must label or otherwise identify containers of hazardous chemicals.
Employees must be told how to obtain information about the hazardous
substances in their workplaces and must be provided proper
training in the safe use of these materials. The law also
provides an employee, under certain specific circumstances,
with the right to refuse to work with a chemical if the
employer does not provide access to the required information.
EMPLOYEE RIGHTS
- MSDS must be readily accessible to you during your work shift,
when you are in your work area.
- The chemical information list for hazardous substances in your workplace
must be made available within one day of your request.
- Within five days of a request, you must be provided with one
copy of the chemical information list or MSDS or the
means to make a copy of the requested material, at no cost.
- You must be trained on the hazards of the chemicals in your workplace,
the appropriate equipment and methods to protect you
from the hazards, and emergency procedures.
EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES
Your Right-to-Know program takes teamwork. Do your part to work with your
employer and co-workers to keep your workplace safe!
- Know where to get information about hazardous substances used,
stored, or handled in your workplace.
- Learn to read labels and understand MSDS.
- Identify hazards before you start a job.
- Do not be afraid to ask questions.
- Keep your work area clean.
- Use protective clothing and equipment.
- Do not smoke, eat, or drink around hazardous substances.
- Learn emergency procedures.
- Follow your employer’s procedures for disposal and clean up.
- Practice safe work habits at all time.
ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE! CALL MOSH
- Copies of MOSH publications 410-527-2092
- Industrial hygiene assistance 410-527-4499
- Complaints about an unsafe workplace 410-527-4447
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