Hazard Classification and Toxicology (GHS) practice questions for the CSP exam

A plant safety manager is reviewing the facility's hazard communication program. The plant purchases solvents from a supplier and does not manufacture or import any chemicals. The manager asks whether the plant must independently classify the hazards of each solvent. What is the correct answer?

1. A.Yes; the plant must classify the solvents through toxicity testing such as LD50 studies
2. B.No; employers may never classify chemicals under any circumstances
3. C.Yes; every employer must classify every chemical in the workplace before use
4. D.No; the plant is not required to classify unless it chooses not to rely on the manufacturer's or importer's classification

A retail store sells cleaning chemicals that employees handle only in sealed containers. A shipment of sealed containers arrives without a safety data sheet (SDS), and a stock clerk asks to see the SDS for one product. According to the hazard communication standard, what is the employer's obligation?

1. A.Obtain SDSs only after a spill or leak has occurred
2. B.Obtain an SDS only if OSHA specifically requests it during an inspection
3. C.Obtain an SDS as soon as possible because an employee requested it
4. D.No SDS is needed because sealed containers are never opened