GHS and HazCom

The Globally Harmonized System is one of the key components to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard. Because of the standard, Hazard Communication Training is required for all employees where hazardous materials are used or stored.  Therefore employers are responsible for training employees. Because of the standard, employees must receive training for labeling, handling, protective measures, and other safety concerns that relate to chemicals.  GHS or globally harmonized system is a set of guidelines. The GHS system was developed by the UN to standardize the classification and labeling of chemicals.  Therefore, the globally harmonized system has become an important part of the HazCom standards.

Safety Data Sheets

Most importantly, safety data sheets are one the key components to the new GHS system.  So, under the GHS standards the safety data sheet will contain 16 sections with 12 being mandatory. Sections 1 through 11 and 16 are required, therefore sections 12 through 15 must be included but the content will not be enforced by OSHA. The required sections are as follows:

• Identification
• Hazard identification
• Composition
• First-Aid measures
• Fire-Fighting measures
• Accidental release measures
• Handling and storage
• Exposure controls/PPE
• Physical and chemical properties
• Stability and reactivity
• Toxicological information
• Other information

For more information on SDS sections click here for the OSHA guide

Labeling

Most importantly, employers must label containers with hazardous materials. Therefore, standardized pictograms, product names, hazard statements, precautionary statements and signal words must be in place on all containers.  The GHS labeling is a replacement of the NFPA and HMIS labeling system. For more information on labeling differences click here.  For more on the GHS labeling click here.

More resources

Key Elements of HazCom
GHS Explained
Annual GHS and HazCom training

Because Hazard Communication Training is required annually, we make staying in compliance ease. Most importantly, to reserve a course date dial 877-209-9648, or email SALES@PASAFETY.COM.  Our mission is to reduce workplace accidents and injuries. Therefore, we travel around the country teaching safety training courses. If you can work around our schedule, most importantly, there isn’t much travel cost associated. Please let us know how we can help.