Hack Your Hazcom

SDSWriter, LLC
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BUSINESS

Tired of Hazard Communication headaches? Want to unlock the secrets of safety data sheets and chemical labeling? Then tune in to Hack Your HazCom, the podcast that makes workplace safety clear, concise, and dare we say... interesting. Join us as we dive deep into the world of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard and its international equivalents. We'll break down complex regulations, decode confusing symbols, and equip you with the knowledge you need to protect yourself and your colleagues.

  1. The Expert Guide to Fire Risk Management

    FEB 13

    The Expert Guide to Fire Risk Management

    In this episode, we discuss the scientific and regulatory definitions of flammability and combustibility. The episode details different categories of flammable and combustible liquids based on their flashpoints and boiling points, and explains the classification systems of OSHA, GHS, and NFPA. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the flashpoint and combustibility of materials in various work environments, the implications of aerosolization, and the potential for spontaneous combustion in oily rags. The discussion covers the relevance of different test methods and standards used in hazard communication and risk assessment in industrial settings.00:00 Introduction and Greetings01:13 Scientific Definition of Vulnerability01:53 OSHA GHS Flashpoint Test04:08 NFPA Classification System09:12 Combustible Liquids and Aerosols13:13 Regulatory Standards and Harmonization18:28 Practical Implications and Worker Safety28:00 Understanding Flashpoints and Their Implications28:44 Technical Committees and Standards29:27 Flammability Tests and Methods32:49 Hazard Communication and Process Safety36:51 Challenges with Dust and Nanoparticles43:04 Regulatory Standards and Compliance50:32 Training and Continuous Improvement54:14 Final Thoughts on Hazard Management

    55 min
  2. Scaling Latin America's New Regulatory Mountains

    JAN 23

    Scaling Latin America's New Regulatory Mountains

    In this engaging episode of Hack Your Hazcom, we welcome Melissa Owen, founder of AMBIENTELEGAL and a top expert in regulatory compliance and sustainability throughout Latin America. Melissa shares her extensive knowledge in navigating the complexities of environmental regulations in the region. Discussing everything from the absence of centralized regulatory bodies like the EU to the rising role of OECD in promoting chemical compliance, Melissa provides insight into the complicated landscape of Latin American regulatory frameworks. This episode is ideal for multinational companies trying to understand chemical regulations, extended producer responsibility, and the shifting details of Latin America's legal environment. It’s a must-watch for compliance professionals. Tune in to gain valuable insights into regional trade groups, emerging regulatory trends, and key takeaways for businesses aiming to succeed in Latin America.

    42 min
  3. Mastering EHS Audit Trends and Challenges

    11/14/2025

    Mastering EHS Audit Trends and Challenges

    Welcome to Jennifer Koenig, an expert with over 30 years of regulatory compliance experience, who shares insights on ISO audits, including ISO 14001 for environmental management and ISO 45001 for health and safety. Jennifer discusses the importance of compliance audits, the role of internal and third-party audits, and the value of ISO standards in risk management. She also touches on the challenges companies face in maintaining regulatory compliance, the training needs for EHS managers, and the benefits of employee engagement in safety programs. Additionally, she provides guidance on selecting certifying bodies and emphasizes the necessity of identifying and addressing risks to ensure a robust compliance system. 00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode00:04 Meet Jennifer: Compliance Expert00:55 Diving into Auditing Trends01:16 Understanding ISO Standards03:17 Challenges in Compliance Audits05:49 The Role of an ISO Auditor07:11 Managing Risks and Root Causes08:41 Training and Knowledge Gaps16:08 The Importance of Internal Audits20:44 ISO Certification and Compliance24:23 Enhancing Company Culture with Safety Committees25:48 Integrating ISO 45001 with ISO 1400126:37 Understanding ISO Audit Days and Discounts31:06 The Importance of Internal Audits32:07 Steps to Becoming ISO Certified36:07 Choosing the Right Registrar39:51 Maintaining Auditor Certifications44:45 Final Thoughts on Risk Management

    47 min
  4. Balancing Compliance with Reality

    10/28/2025

    Balancing Compliance with Reality

    We welcome Manuela Dukeshire, an expert in hazard communication and global SDS authoring with over 16 years of experience. Manuela discusses the complexities and evolving nature of hazard classification and regulatory compliance, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with legislation and engaging with professional societies. She provides practical advice on managing multi-country SDS requirements, aligning different sections of SDS, and the significance of balancing regulations with real-world applications. This insightful conversation is essential listening for professionals navigating the challenging terrain of chemical hazard communication. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background01:31 Changes in Hazard Communication02:29 Challenges and Rewards in the Field03:39 Customer Challenges and Solutions05:27 Common Mistakes in Hazard Communication07:09 Navigating International Regulations10:24 Data Quality and Hazard Classification16:26 Creating and Reviewing SDS30:00 Future Trends in Hazard Communication35:26 Conclusion and Final Takeaways

    37 min
  5. Humor Meets Confusion in the World of the SDS

    10/17/2025

    Humor Meets Confusion in the World of the SDS

    We welcome Steve Laughlin, owner of CJ and K Training, who shares his extensive experience in Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S). The conversation covers a wide range of topics from the complications of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) in spill response and waste disposal to the importance of accurate chemical information and regulatory hurdles. We also delve into the frustrations faced by professionals working with incomplete or confusing SDSs and the need for more stringent enforcement and legislation to improve the quality and clarity of these essential documents.00:00 Welcome to Day Two of the Summit00:21 Introducing Steve Laughlin00:55 Parody Song and Safety Data Sheets02:23 Challenges with Safety Data Sheets03:04 Real-World Issues and Frustrations05:19 Waste Disposal Industry Insights07:08 The Need for Better Chemical Disclosure10:11 Regulatory Standards and Compliance11:39 Similarities Between Regulations and Religion12:23 The Complexity of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)12:55 Challenges with Transportation Information on SDS13:21 Issues with DOT Compliance and SDS Accuracy14:08 The Role of Chemists and Compliance in SDS Creation16:25 Training and Compliance: Real-World Examples19:07 The Importance of Clear and Understandable SDS22:18 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

    24 min
  6. When the Neighbors Needed to Know

    10/03/2025

    When the Neighbors Needed to Know

    This episode features an in-depth conversation with Corrine Greenberg, an EHS manager at Eckhart America's Louisville facility, discussing her innovative approach to hazard communication at the EHS Summit in Louisville, Kentucky. Corrine shares how she transformed traditional hazard communication (HAZCOM) training into a public-facing course tailored for sensitive populations in the community. Inspired by the 2023 East Palestine train derailment, she developed a multi-part course to educate the public on hazardous materials, air emissions, and risk management, filling critical knowledge gaps and empowering individuals with actionable insights. This comprehensive discussion covers the motivation, development, implementation, and community impact of the training program, highlighting its importance in fostering transparent and informed community engagement.00:00 Welcome to the EHS Summit00:12 Introducing Corrine Greenberg01:45 Hazard Communication Session Overview03:15 The East Palestine Train Derailment04:51 LEPC's Role and Response06:10 Developing a Public-Facing HazCom Course08:45 Beta Testing and Refining the Course16:28 Rolling Out the Course to the Public23:10 Understanding Air Emissions27:45 Modeling and Shelter in Place28:37 Understanding Toxic Inhalation Hazards30:53 Risk Management Session31:49 Community Engagement and Incident Response35:13 Addressing Community Concerns36:15 Lessons from Past Incidents39:55 Effective Hazard Communication42:00 Promoting LEPC and Community Involvement47:22 Personal Reflections and Career Insights51:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    53 min
  7. When a Square Peg Meets a Round Hole in Waste Profiling

    09/17/2025

    When a Square Peg Meets a Round Hole in Waste Profiling

    In this episode, recorded live at the AHMP Hazmat Summit, Atanu interviews Becky Neal, a Senior Strategic Manager of Compliance at Envita Solutions. Becky provides insights into the complexities of regulatory support for hazardous waste disposal and recycling. She discusses the challenges of using Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for waste profiling, addressing the disconnect between the information provided and the real-world requirements of disposal facilities. The conversation touches on the limitations of SDSs, the importance of accurate waste characterization, and the regulatory demands from the EPA, OSHA, and DOT. Becky shares her experiences and strategies for obtaining reliable information to meet regulatory standards and ensure safe disposal practices.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:52 The Importance of Communication in Compliance01:28 Understanding the HAZ Waste Industry02:22 Challenges with SDS Documentation03:40 Navigating Regulatory Requirements07:04 Dealing with Proprietary Ingredients08:45 Testing and Profiling Waste18:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    18 min
  8. Key Lessons and Advice for Emerging Regulatory Professionals

    08/15/2025

    Key Lessons and Advice for Emerging Regulatory Professionals

    In this episode, Atanu welcomes Jonelle Thomas, a Global Regulatory Affairs Manager at Microban International, to share her career journey. Jonelle discusses her academic background in biochemistry and toxicology, her early career aspirations, and her transition from research to regulatory affairs. She highlights the importance of mentorship in shaping her career path and shares insights into the regulatory field, including challenges faced, lessons learned, and the significance of networking and continuous learning. The episode also delves into strategies for engaging in hazard communication and balancing compliance with creating a safety culture. Jonelle underscores the dynamic nature of the regulatory profession and encourages newcomers to explore opportunities in this impactful field.00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Jonelle Thomas01:12 Jonelle's Early Career and Education01:49 Transitioning from Research to Regulatory Affairs03:18 Discovering Product Management and Mentorship05:24 Entering the Regulatory Field14:18 Challenges in Regulatory Affairs19:23 Lessons Learned and Common Mistakes28:15 The Importance of Genuine Interest in Your Career28:57 Soft Skills and Interview Preparation29:46 Proud Achievements: Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt33:30 Challenges and Learning from Setbacks40:01 Engaging Hazard Communication Strategies42:17 Balancing Compliance and Safety Culture44:52 Digital Tools and Professional Networks49:59 Skills, Certifications, and Future Trends55:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    58 min
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About

Tired of Hazard Communication headaches? Want to unlock the secrets of safety data sheets and chemical labeling? Then tune in to Hack Your HazCom, the podcast that makes workplace safety clear, concise, and dare we say... interesting. Join us as we dive deep into the world of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard and its international equivalents. We'll break down complex regulations, decode confusing symbols, and equip you with the knowledge you need to protect yourself and your colleagues.

Information

  • Creator
    SDSWriter, LLC
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © SDSWriter, LLC
  • Show Website
    Hack Your Hazcom