Who is primarily responsible for employee training regarding new label elements, such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?

The employer holds the primary responsibility for ensuring that employees receive adequate training on new label elements and Safety Data Sheets (SDS). This responsibility stems from various regulations and standards, particularly the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard, which mandates that employers must provide information and training to employees about hazardous chemicals they may encounter in the workplace.

By delivering this training, employers ensure that their employees understand how to interpret label elements, recognize hazards, and follow safe handling practices. The training must be specific and relevant to the substances that employees are likely to come into contact with, thus promoting a safer work environment. Employers are tasked with not only providing this education but also updating it as needed when new hazards are introduced or when there are updates to the SDS.

The other roles listed, such as employees, contractors, and safety officers, have different responsibilities related to safety and compliance, but the ultimate duty to ensure that training takes place and is effective lies with the employers.