What part of the hazardous communication standard is the fundamental building block for the HAZCOM program?

The fundamental building block for the Hazardous Communication (HAZCOM) program is the hazardous chemical inventory. This inventory serves as the foundation for the entire HAZCOM initiative because it identifies and lists all hazardous chemicals present in the workplace. Knowing what hazardous substances are on-site allows for effective management of these chemicals and ensures appropriate safety measures are implemented.

The inventory is essential for determining the need for safety data sheets, which provide detailed information about the properties of each chemical and necessary precautions. Additionally, training programs depend on the inventory to tailor the training content to the specific hazards employees may encounter. Labeling requirements also rely on the inventory, as it helps in labeling chemicals correctly. Overall, without a comprehensive hazardous chemical inventory, the other components of the HAZCOM program cannot be effectively utilized, making it the crucial starting point.