5 Steps to Update Your MSDS Display Boards for 2026 OSHA Compliance

Compliance Overview

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) updated the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). This update aligns with the Global Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) Revision 7. Employers must update workplace labeling and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) systems. The deadline for substance-related compliance is July 19, 2026. This document provides technical instructions for updating display boards and posters.

Step 1: Conduct Chemical Inventory

Identify every chemical substance in the facility. Create a list. Include the following data points for each item:

• Chemical name

• Manufacturer name

• Storage location

• Use frequency

• Date of current Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Compare this list to the 2026 OSHA requirements. Manufacturers had a deadline of January 19, 2026, to update SDS documents for substances. Request updated sheets for chemicals such as N-Butanol or Chlorine. Verify that the sheets contain the new GHS Revision 7 data.

Remove sheets for chemicals no longer present in the workplace. Archive these for 30 years as per record-keeping standards. Do not store obsolete sheets on active display boards.

Step 2: Verify Hazard Classifications

Review the hazards identified in Section 2 of the SDS. The 2026 standards include new hazard categories. Check for the following classifications:

• Aerosols: This category now includes non-flammable aerosols.

• Desensitized Explosives: This is a new hazard class for 2026.

• Flammable Gases: This class contains new subcategories (Category 1A and 1B).

• Chemicals Under Pressure: This is a new category for substances stored in pressurized containers.

Inspect the pictograms on the SDS. The pictograms must use a red diamond border. The symbols must be black on a white background. Refer to the Caustic Soda MSDS Poster for an example of correct formatting. If the current display boards use outdated symbols or orange backgrounds, replacement is mandatory.

Step 3: Select Durable Board Materials

Select display materials based on the workplace environment. Safety Poster Prints offers two primary material options for MSDS boards:

1. Aluminum Composite Panel (ACP) Sheets

ACP sheets consist of two aluminum skins bonded to a core.

• Durability: High.

• Weather Resistance: High.

• Use Case: Outdoor locations, high-moisture areas, and heavy industrial zones.

• Properties: Resistance to chemicals, UV rays, and physical impact.

2. Foam Sheets

Foam sheets provide a lightweight alternative.

• Durability: Moderate.

• Weather Resistance: Low.

• Use Case: Indoor offices, laboratories, and temperature-controlled warehouses.

• Properties: Easy mounting and cost-effectiveness.

Choose ACP posters for areas where chemicals or weather factors degrade standard paper or vinyl. Use Foam posters for standard indoor wall mounting. Correct material selection prevents workplace confusion caused by faded or damaged signage.

Step 4: Install Signs and Update Layouts

Position the MSDS display boards in accessible locations. Follow these installation parameters:

• Height: Mount the center of the board 1.5 meters from the floor.

• Accessibility: Boards must remain unobstructed at all times.

• Lighting: Minimum 200 lux illumination on the board surface.

• Location: Place boards near chemical storage or mixing stations.

Use expert designs to organize information. The layout must separate Section 1 (Identification) through Section 16 (Other Information). Use bold headers for Section 4 (First Aid Measures) and Section 8 (Exposure Controls/Personal Protection). Integrate PPE posters adjacent to MSDS boards. This ensures workers view required safety gear alongside chemical data.

Step 5: Implement Training and Documentation

Update the Hazard Communication Program document. This document must state the method for updating the SDS. It must define the location of all display boards.

Conduct training sessions for all employees. The training must cover:

• Understanding the new hazard classes (Aerosols, Chemicals Under Pressure).

• Identifying the new GHS Revision 7 labels.

• Locating and reading the 16 sections of the SDS.

• Recognizing 5S principles for maintaining safety stations.

Document all training sessions. Include dates, topics, and attendee signatures. Store these records in the safety office. Verify that workers can demonstrate the ability to retrieve an SDS from the board in under three minutes.

Technical Specifications Summary

Navigation Actions

To proceed with updates, select an option:

• View MSDS Poster Collection

• Browse PPE Signage

• Review 5S Methodology Boards

If the required chemical is not listed, custom printing services are available. Select the custom request button on the product page. Submit the SDS file for design and production on ACP or Foam sheets.

Maintenance Schedule

Perform a board inspection every 30 days.

1. Check for physical damage to ACP or Foam surfaces.

2. Confirm all SDS sheets are present.

3. Verify that ink remains legible and free from chemical splashes.

4. Clean the board surface with a damp cloth if dust accumulates.

Follow these steps to maintain 2026 OSHA compliance. Use durable materials to ensure long-term visibility in industrial environments. System updates for substance hazards must finish by July 19, 2026. Future updates for mixtures will appear in 2027 and 2028.