Understanding chemicals and safer substitutions: A new online tool for workers

Chemicals can make working people, their families and the environment sick. The science of how chemicals can harm health has changed dramatically over the last 40 years, but the laws that are supposed to protect us from chemicals on and off the job are stuck in the 1970s. Existing chemical databases and material safety data sheets can be difficult for workers to understand and glean the information they need. In order to address some of these challenges, workers in multiple industries were consulted to determine what information on chemicals and what method of delivery is most helpful for workers. An analysis of existing chemical databases was also performed. Using that information, a union and environmental partnership developed ChemHAT. It is a new worker-friendly online toolbox that identifies chemical hazards and safer alternatives, using the new Globally Harmonized System for chemical information. This presentation will demonstrate ChemHAT and discuss how this new tool will enhance worker training on chemicals. It will also describe proposed applications for ChemHAT to disseminate information about chemicals and safer substitutions to other groups, such as environmental groups and women's health groups.