The deadlines for implementing new rules from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are rapidly approaching and the key to compliance is getting ahead of the problem, according to Wes Maertz, technical safety specialist at Grainger, in Deadline for Chemical Label Changes Looms.

Now that OSHA’s three-year transition period is nearing its close, some companies may realize that they underestimated what it will take to get the appropriate pieces in place and now "they’re on the clock,” Maertz says.

To prepare for these changes, distributors need to overcome three key challenges, Maertz says: They should make training an ongoing process; plan ahead to determine what still needs to be updated; and adhere to new rules regarding workplace labeling.

Maertz, who advises taking a proactive role, especially in training, says Grainger created an extensive training and education program to stay well ahead of the deadlines, which had positive results.

Read about the new OSHA regulations and how to prepare for them in Deadline for Chemical Label Changes Looms.