Chemicals

What is Ammonia? Ammonia is a colorless gas with a characteristically pungent odor. One of the most common industrial chemicals in the U.S., ammonia is used primarily as an agricultural fertilizer. Other uses for ammonia include: Potential Ammonia Health Hazards Ammonia gas reacts instantly with the moisture in the skin, eyes, mouth, and respiratory tract […]

What is Xylene? Xylene is a colorless liquid chemical with a somewhat greasy consistency. This chemical is present in small quantities in gasoline and other fuels, comprising approximately 0.5-1% of crude oil. Millions of tons of xylene are produced each year, as the chemical is used as a solvent in the printing, leather, and rubber […]

This month, Mexico announced that it has made GHS alignment mandatory beginning in 2018. The official announcement, published in the Official Journal of the Federation of Mexico, states that during the three-year phase-in period, older standards can continue to be used. Mexico based its alignment on Revision 5 (Rev. 5) of the GHS, first published […]

According to OSHA, eye injuries cost U.S. businesses more than $300 million per year in lost production time, medical expenses and worker compensation, and NIOSH reports that about 2,000 U.S. workers suffer job-related eye injuries each day. Clearly, eye injuries are a major concern for both workers and employers. October is Eye Injury Prevention Month, […]

At this year’s National Safety Council Congress and Expo in Atlanta, OSHA provided important insight into its thinking around inspections and enforcement directives. Delivering a keynote speech at the event, OSHA head Dr. David Michaels stressed that OSHA will be making changes intended to bolster the effectiveness of enforcement. There were several areas Dr. Michaels […]

Earlier this week, Slate reported that the EPA is considering a new rule for 2016 that could impact the use of methylene chloride (also known as dichloromethane), a chemical commonly found in paint strippers. The rule could result in anything from new warning label requirements to an outright ban. According to OSHA, workers using methylene […]

As students across the country head back to school, it’s important to understand the kind of complex chemical ecosystem they will face on K-12 and university campuses. In addition to cleaners and maintenance chemicals, these facilities often feature chemical labs with an array of hazards comparable to those found in an industrial setting. And with […]

OSHA has approved the launch of a State Plan in the state of Maine, which will be responsible for enforcing safety and health requirements for government employees. This plan becomes effective immediately. “This is a major milestone for Maine public employees and the state’s development of its occupational safety and health program,” said OSHA head […]

What is Salicylic Acid? Salicylic acid is a colorless crystalline acid derived from organic sources. This chemical has a variety of applications and can present several health hazards if used without adequate precautions. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind when handling and storing salicylic acid. Common Uses of Salicylic Acid Salicylic […]

Welcome to VelocityEHS’ news roundup, featuring the latest EHS headlines that you might have missed. Among this week’s topics are several OSHA updates, including the agency’s focus on key worker hazards in healthcare facilities, approved legislation that would reduce its fiscal year 2016 budget, and new safety fact sheets for California workers and employers. Other […]