OSHA Hazard Communication Standard: Extended Compliance Timelines

OSHA has officially announced a four-month extension for all compliance deadlines under the updated OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). This decision gives manufacturers, importers, distributors, and employers extra time to prepare for the new labeling, Safety Data Sheet (OSHA SDS requirements), OSHA hazard classification, and training requirements.

This extension comes as a relief to many organisations that were preparing for the original early‑2026 deadlines.

Why Did OSHA Extend the Deadlines?

OSHA explained that the regulated community is still awaiting finalised guidance documents that clarify expectations under the updated HCS revisions. Industry groups also requested more time for preparation, citing the complexity of the updates.

To ensure smoother implementation and reduce compliance risks, OSHA has allowed additional time for regulators and businesses to fully understand the OSHA HCS requirements.

Revised Compliance Dates: A Quick Breakdown

The new HCS deadlines follow OSHA’s tiered approach for substances and mixtures.

For Substances

For Mixtures

These updated timelines give organisations more breathing room to align their documentation and training programs without compromising accuracy.

Can Businesses Still Use the Old HCS?

Yes. Until the new deadlines take effect, OSHA continues to allow compliance under:

• The 2012 HCS,
• The 2024 updated HCS, or
• A combination of both

This flexibility helps companies avoid disruptions during their transition to the updated standard.

What This Means for Your Organisation

With these extensions, businesses now have more room to:

• Update labels and SDSs to meet revised OSHA SDS requirements
• Review and improve internal hazard communication programs
• Conduct employee training on new OSHA hazard classifications
• Reduce the risk of rushed or inaccurate compliance work

Whether you're at the planning stage or already in transition, Freyr ensures your documentation and processes meet OSHA requirements.

Need help understanding or implementing the revised OSHA HCS requirements?

Freyr’s Regulatory experts can support you at every stage-whether you're updating OSHA HCS SDS and OSHA HCS labels, reassessing hazard classifications, or refining communication programmes for the updated requirements. Freyr helps simplify the transition, reduce compliance risks, and ensure full readiness before the new deadlines.