EPA Aligns Chemical Reporting Rules With Updated OSHA Standards
Published Date: 6/22/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting August 21, 2026, businesses that handle hazardous chemicals need to update their reports to match the new 2024 OSHA hazard rules. This change makes reports clearer and easier to understand, helping first responders and communities stay safer. Companies must follow the new rules by January 1, 2028, with updated reports due by March 1, 2028—no big costs, just smoother safety info!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Clearer reports for first responders
EPA says the rule matches EPCRA inventory reports to OSHA's updated hazard categories so first responders and communities get clearer, less confusing hazard information. The Agency states this improves first responder and community safety and reduces discrepancies when using Safety Data Sheets.
New hazard-category reporting timeline
If your business handles hazardous chemicals, the rule takes effect August 21, 2026 and you must use the new OSHA 2024 hazard categories by January 1, 2028. The 2027 EPCRA section 312 annual reports should reflect the new categories and are due March 1, 2028.
Estimated annual net savings for reporters
EPA estimates the final rule will save about $12.83 million per year (in 2025 dollars) across roughly 463,000 affected facilities. EPA says these are annual incremental cost savings from reduced respondent labor burden.
Who must report and reporting deadlines
The rule applies to owners and operators of facilities required to prepare or have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for any hazardous chemical under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard. EPCRA section 312 inventory forms must be submitted on or before March 1 each year for the prior calendar year.
EPA will supply updated forms and tools
EPA will publish revised Tier I and Tier II forms, post the National Tier II Data Standard, update guidance and training, and release Tier2 Submit and CAMEO Data Manager software on the normal November schedule to help implement the change.
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