United States: OSHA Corrects HazCom Definition of Critical Temperature

On February 13, 2026, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a correction in the Federal Register to the Hazard Communication Standard.

The correction clarifies the definition of “critical temperature” for gases under pressure.

It states that the critical temperature is the temperature above which a pure gas cannot be liquefied, regardless of compression.

It also confirms that aerosols and chemicals under pressure must not be classified as gases under pressure.

The correction takes effect on February 13, 2026 and affects manufacturers, importers, and employers who classify and label hazardous chemicals.

On February 13, 2026, the Department of Labor published a correction to the Hazard Communication Standard issued by OSHA. The correction updates the explanatory text below a classification table for gases under pressure.

The change clarifies one key definition:

• Critical temperature means the temperature above which a pure gas cannot be liquefied, no matter how much pressure is applied.

The correction also reinforces an important classification rule:

• Aerosols and chemicals under pressure are not classified as gases under pressure.

What changes in practice

This update does not introduce a new obligation. It corrects and clarifies the technical wording used for classification. However, it directly affects how companies:

• Classify gases under pressure
• Prepare safety data sheets (SDS)
• Develop container labels
• Train employees on chemical hazards

Companies that manufacture or import compressed gases must ensure that their hazard classification reflects the corrected definition. Misclassification may lead to incorrect hazard statements, pictograms, or precautionary measures on labels and SDS.

Comparison with previous text

Before this correction, the regulatory text below the table was incomplete or inaccurate. The updated wording now clearly explains the scientific meaning of critical temperature and removes confusion about aerosols and chemicals under pressure. The core structure of the Hazard Communication Standard remains the same.

Who is affected

The correction impacts:

• Chemical manufacturers
• Chemical importers
• Distributors
• Employers who use compressed gases in the workplace

Industries such as manufacturing, laboratories, energy, welding, healthcare, and industrial gas supply are most likely affected.

Why compliance matters

OSHA enforces the Hazard Communication Standard. Incorrect hazard classification or labeling can lead to citations, monetary penalties, and mandatory corrective actions. More importantly, proper classification protects workers from physical hazards linked to compressed gases.

Entry into force

The correction is effective on February 13, 2026.

Sources:

Adopted Rule: Hazard Communication Standards, Correction, 29 CFR 1910 (February 13, 2026)