Hazard Communication Regulatory and Compliance Updates: What Veterinary Practices Need to Know

As a veterinary professional, you manage not only the health and well-being of animals but also the safe handling of chemicals, medications, and hazardous materials in your practice. Regulatory changes will impact your operations, from hazard communication to labeling standards. Staying informed is essential to maintain compliance, ensure workplace safety, and uphold your practice's reputation. Here’s what veterinary clinics need to know about the latest regulatory updates.

Overview of Regulatory Changes in 2024

Major jurisdictions, including Canada, the EU, Brazil, and the United States, are updating their regulatory frameworks for chemical classification, labeling, and communication. These changes aim to align more closely with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), but differences between regions still exist. Veterinary practices using disinfectants, anesthetics, and other chemicals must be prepared for these updates to avoid compliance issues.

Key Regulatory Updates for Veterinary Practices

1. United States: OSHA Aligns With GHS Revision 7

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued its Final Rule aligning the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) with GHS Revision 7. Key changes include:

  • New Hazard Classifications: Expanded categories for flammable gases and aerosols.
  • Interactive Effects: Updates in Section 11 of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to include chemical interactions.
  • Mandatory Compliance Deadline: January 19, 2026, giving veterinary clinics time to adapt to the changes.

What It Means for Your Practice: Ensure that SDSs and chemical labels from suppliers are updated to meet the new standards. Review your hazard communication program and provide updated training for staff.

2. Canada: Incorporating GHS Revision 7

Canada has adopted GHS Revision 7 with elements of Revision 8, including a new hazard class for chemicals under pressure and updates to acute toxicity classification. Notable changes include:

  • Revised Label Elements: Including updated hazard statements and pictograms.
  • Changes to SDS Format: New requirements in Sections 3 and 9.
  • Deadline for Compliance: December 14, 2025.

What It Means for Your Practice: If you source veterinary medications or disinfectants from Canadian suppliers, verify that their labels and SDSs meet the updated standards.

3. EU: Unique Hazard Classifications

The European Union has introduced new hazard classes, such as Endocrine Disruptors and Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic Substances (PBTs), which are not part of GHS.

What It Means for Your Practice: Veterinary practices importing products from the EU must ensure compliance with these unique classifications. Check product labels and SDSs for adherence to EU-specific standards.

4. Brazil: Streamlined Standards

Brazil’s updated NBR 14725:2023 framework includes the adoption of GHS Revision 7 and new requirements for SDS and labeling, such as:

  • Mandatory 24/7 Emergency Contact Numbers: For chemical exposure incidents.
  • Optional SDS QR Codes on Labels: For smaller packages.
  • Compliance Deadline: July 4, 2025.

What It Means for Your Practice: If you purchase veterinary supplies from Brazilian manufacturers, confirm that their documentation complies with these changes.

Proactive Steps for Veterinary Practices

  1. Review SDSs and Labels: Conduct a thorough audit of all chemical products in your practice to ensure they comply with updated regulations.
  2. Train Your Staff: Provide training on the new hazard classifications, labeling changes, and proper handling of hazardous materials.
  3. Update Your Hazard Communication Program: Incorporate regulatory changes into your existing safety protocols to maintain OSHA compliance.
  4. Monitor Supply Chains: Work closely with suppliers to confirm that imported products meet the updated standards in their respective jurisdictions.
  5. Invest in Compliance Software: Use software solutions designed to manage SDSs and labeling requirements efficiently.

Why Compliance Matters for Veterinary Clinics

Non-compliance with regulatory standards can result in penalties, shipment delays, and reputational damage. For veterinary clinics, ensuring that medications, disinfectants, and other chemicals are properly labeled and stored is critical to safeguarding your staff, patients, and clients. By staying ahead of regulatory changes, you demonstrate your commitment to safety and professionalism.

Partner With Certified Safety Training

At Certified Safety Training, we specialize in helping veterinary practices navigate complex regulatory changes. From SDS management to staff training, our tailored solutions ensure your practice remains compliant.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support your regulatory compliance needs.

 

Back to blog