Is your business GHS compliant?

The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of classifying and labeling chemicals was established in 2012 as a way for the entire world to get on the same page.  It is not a global law, rather a set of rules that demonstrate the best possible practices for dealing with chemical labeling in hopes that compliance becomes standard amongst everyone.  OSHA has adopted the GHS practice and has made training mandatory for all businesses as of March 26, 2012.

Complying with GHS takes some training and may require some changes to your existing business.  Here are some of the more common changes:

• Safety labels- GHS labels contain 6 standardized elements that include chemical classification specific language.
• Safety data sheets- Instead of being referenced as MSDSs, the GHS protocol drops the M and refers to them as SDSs.
• Chemical classification- is done by narrowing each item into categories substance, mixture, article, or alloy. More information on how to classify items can be found on msdsonline.com

According to the ICC Compliance Center there is a need for GHS compliance across the globe:

“Currently, throughout the world there exist inconsistences between the various (national and regional) systems that control the classification of chemicals. GHS began as a result of the recognition by the United Nations (UN) for the need to harmonize these separate systems between the countries, and even within individual countries. It is meant to “harmonize” existing systems by establishing a unique system for identifying hazardous materials and giving warnings to users.”

If everyone can follow the same guidelines for handling and labeling chemicals, it could be a lot easier to ship, handle, and dispose of them properly without confusion.  If you would like more information on the Globally Harmonized System, we can direct you to your business insurance carrier’s loss control department where a representative can help you with compliance.

Photo by JPC24M