OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HAZCOM) is receiving important updates that will take effect in 2026. While these changes primarily affect how chemical hazards are communicated, they will also impact healthcare employers who use disinfectants, sterilants, laboratory chemicals, dental materials, and other products in daily operations.
The goal of these updates is to improve the presentation of chemical hazard information so employees can more easily recognize and understand workplace risks.
Does this apply to healthcare?
A common misconception is that Hazard Communication regulations only apply to manufacturing or industrial environments. In fact, OSHA requires ANY workplace that uses hazardous chemicals to maintain a Hazard Communication program. Because of this, employers must ensure that employees have access to chemical hazard information, understand chemical labeling, and know where Safety Data Sheets are located.
What Is Changing in 2026
The upcoming updates focus on improving clarity and consistency in how chemical hazards are communicated. As a result, healthcare practices may notice several changes when they receive new products or updated Safety Data Sheets:
Chemical manufacturers and importers are responsible for updating labels and Safety Data Sheets to reflect these new standards. The standardized 16-section Safety Data Sheet format will remain in place, but some sections will include expanded information to emphasize how the chemical hazards are presented. New versions may include clearer language, more visible warning statements, and additional information about potential health effects.
Secondary container labels must also comply with the updated regulations, which now include the product identifier, updated hazard classifications (pictograms, signal words, hazard statements), and be fully aligned with updated Safety Data Sheets (SDSs).
Important Deadlines
Employers should periodically review their chemical inventory and ensure that the SDS file accurately reflects the products currently used in the workplace. It is also important to remember that OSHA requires records related to chemical exposure to be maintained for 30 years after the last use of a chemical. While employers do not necessarily have to retain the original SDS document for that entire period, they must maintain records identifying the chemical, where it was used, and when it was present in the workplace.
What Employers Should Do Now
The Bottom Line
As manufacturers begin updating chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets, healthcare employers will start seeing these changes reflected in the products they purchase. By reviewing chemical inventories, updating SDS files, and reinforcing employee training, practices can ensure compliance while maintaining a safe work environment.
