Understanding GHS
The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) is a worldwide initiative to promote standard criteria for classifying chemicals according to their hazards and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. GHS was developed by international mandate to:
- Benefit countries, international organizations and chemical producers
- Enhance the protection of humans and the environment
- Facilitate international chemicals trade
- Reduce redundant and costly testing and evaluation
Transitioning your organization to GHS will not be an overnight process. To become GHS compliant, MSDSs need re-authored into the new standardized SDS format; containers need re-labeled to include the appropriate signal words, pictograms and hazard statements; employees need re-trained; and written procedures, updated.
As your trusted regulation resource partner, Safetec is committed to keeping you updated on GHS milestones and helping you prepare for the upcoming standard.
Links:
GHS Timeline
2012
2011
2010
US – OSHA hosted public GHS hearings
World – GHS currently implemented or in various stages of implementation in 67 countries
2009
US – OSHA proposed modifications to conform Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to GHS
World – Third revised edition of GHS is published (currently the most recent)
2007
US – DOT transport regulations aligned to GHS
EU – Adopted act aligning EU system of classification, labeling and packaging substances to GHS
World – Second revised edition of GHS is published
2006
US – OSHA publishes Advanced Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) on GHS
Canada – Published GHS multi-stakeholder technical consultation results
2005
2004
2003
Canada – Published a situational analysis which compared the existing systems in Canada to GHS and identified possible issues for discussion during the implementation of GHS in Canada
UN – GHS adoption is endorsed by the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations
World – First edition of the GHS is published
2002
World – At the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) countries are encouraged to adopt GHS by 2008.
UN – GHS formally adopted by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
US – OSHA, DOT, CPSC and EPA form Interagency Working Group on Harmonization to work in concert with the State Department to represent the United State’s interest in the GHS process
1992
1983
US – OSHA issues Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) which includes a preamble recommending an internationally harmonized system
