Welcome to the Hazard Communication and Right-to-Know online training program.
This program is intended for the entire New York State workforce and provides information employees need to know concerning the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard, also called HCS or HazCom, and the New York State Right-to-Know Law. The responsibilities of supervisors, managers and other administrators in complying with the HazCom and Right-to-Know Law are described as well.
How to Complete the Training:
To successfully complete the course, you must:
1. Read the information presented on each screen
2. Check your comprehension of the material by participating in all learning activities, such as surveys, open-ended questions and other interactive exercises
3. Answer all review questions and use the feedback provided to increase your understanding
4. Print the HazCom/Right-to-Know Training Confirmation Form and send it to CCTR 207 Attn: Jeffrey Hammer for verification of course completion.
Also, you may print a course completion certificate for your records. If you have questions about this online learning environment, please contact EH&S at 878-6128.
To begin the program, click RTK Online Program.
How does the HazCom Right-to-Know Act Help to Protect My Health?
Under the Right-to-Know (RTK) Act you can get information about hazardous substances that may be harmful to you or your family. These substances may be present in your Buffalo State College workplace or at facilities in your community, or may be released into the environment.
Exposure to hazardous substances has been linked to problems such as cancer, birth defects, and heart, lung and kidney diseases. These may develop without prior symptoms, many years after exposure. Awareness about hazardous substances and their health effects can help with proper diagnosis and treatment. More importantly, awareness about hazardous substances and potential exposure can help you make important decisions about employment and lifestyle.
What Are the Workplace Rights of New York Public Employees?
Public employees have certain rights and access to information about substances with which they work. With this information, workers learn of job-related health risks and ways to minimize their exposure.
The rights of a public employee include:
The right to work with labeled containers which identify their chemical contents;
The right to obtain a copy of the RTK Survey of hazardous substances in their workplace;
The right to get Hazardous Substance Fact Sheets and Material Safety Data Sheets about chemicals they may be exposed to or potentially exposed to from their employer;
The right to education and training about hazardous chemicals in the workplace. This training must be given by the employer on paid time;
The right to exercise any rights provided by the RTK Act without reprisals from their employer;
The right to file a complaint against their employer for not complying with the Act. Their name will be kept confidential; and
The right to refuse to work with a substance if their employer has not given them the information they requested in writing within five working days.
During that time, they should call the NY Department of Health BEFORE they refuse to work with the substance.
