Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to assess the status of compliance with the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) within the municipal work environment. The study sought to determine the level of compliance within four specific areas of the HCS: (1) Written Hazard Communication Program (HCP); (2) Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) Program; (3) Employee Information and Training; and (4) Container Labeling. Method. Municipal organizational structures were studied and assessed with their areas of weaknesses noted. The population sample, for this study, was drawn from cities within the Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino Counties that had a population between 25,001 and 250,000 people. Of the 127 cities within these three counties, 79 met the population requirements. The survey used in this study was developed and field-tested by the researcher. Eight competency items focused on pertinent aspects of the HCS were selected and presented for individual responses. The municipal departments represented in this study included: public works, fire, parks and recreation, utilities, water, streets, risk management and general management. Forty-nine surveys, from 32 of the 79 cities included in this study, were returned to the researcher. Findings. Results indicated that a significant number of respondents stated non-compliance existed in the following areas: (1) written program; (2) MSDS program; and (3) employee information and training. Recommendations. In order to effectively and efficiently comply with the requirements of the HCS, the upper management of municipalities should: (1) address the short-comings of the organizational structures in operation; (2) establish an effective and efficient communication system; (3) delineate the lines of responsibility and authority for those involved with the development, implementation and evaluation of the HCP; (4) establish a HCP auditing system that will meet the requirements of the HCS; (5) recognize their collective and individual limits regarding the needs of both the organizational structure's and the HCS's development, implementation and evaluation; (6) seek help from a professional who has expertise in these areas and who is able to provide assistance where necessary.