The Hazard Communication plan of Bates College ensures that all employees who handle or may come into contact with hazardous chemicals are informed of the hazards of these chemicals and of measures to protect themselves. This program includes the following: maintaining a Hazardous Chemical list; labeling containers of hazardous chemicals; providing access to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all employees regarding hazardous chemicals present in their work environment; semi-annual listing of all hazardous chemicals which are used on the campus; and training programs for employees who use or may come into contact with hazardous chemicals.

All employees are required to receive two types of training in the Right-To-Know Program. Basic training is received during orientation and includes: explanation of the Hazardous Chemical Protection and Right-To-Know Act; how to read and interpret an MSDS; how to read and interpret a chemical label; the College’s Right-To-Know policy; and chemical hazard classification.

Employees working in areas that make it more likely that they may come in contact with different chemicals are required to have Chemical-Specific training. Department heads are responsible for ensuring that all new employees receive Chemical-specific training prior to being required to handle a hazardous chemical. Such training consists of, but is not be limited to, the following: methods and observations that are or may be used to detect the release of a hazardous chemical; the physical and health hazards of the chemicals in the work area; and the measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards.

Source: Section 502, Bates College Employee Handbook.