Articles such as styrofoam and white-out exempt from HCS requirements in florist shops. | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Standard Number:

1910.1200(b)(6)(iv)

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

May 11, 1988

Mr. John P. McLean
President
McLean's Homestead Floral &
Gift Shoppe, Inc.
820 North Krome Avenue
Homestead, Florida 33030

Dear Mr. McLean:

This is in response to your letter date April 18, regarding the need for material safety data sheets for manufactured products used in your retail florist shop.

Manufactured item such as floral display Styrofoam are considered articles under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard and are therefore exempted from its requirements (29 CFR 1910.1200 (b)(6)(iv)). Other products, such as White Out(Liquid Paper), packaged in the same form and concentration as those intended for use by the general public, which are excluded for the definition of hazardous chemical under Section 311(e)(3) of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, are disapproved from coverage under the Hazard Communication Standard by the Office of Management and Budget. Any other hazardous chemicals used in your retail store, however, are covered by the provisions of the Hazard Communication Standard.

For additional information on the Hazard Communication Standard of other OSHA standards, you may contact the local Area Office located at:

U.S. Department of Labor - OSHA
Federal Building - Room 302
299 East Broward Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Telephone: (305) 527-7292

I hope this information will be helpful to you. If I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

John A. Pendergrass
Assistant Secretary