What is the Globally Harmonized System (GHS)?

Summary

The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of chemical classification and labeling, set to be phased in by OSHA starting December 1, 2013, aims to standardize the communication of chemical hazards in workplaces. This system will replace Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and introduce new hazard categories and labels featuring signal words, pictograms, and hazard statements. GHS is expected to prevent numerous fatalities and injuries while enhancing workplace safety and productivity. Employers are urged to comply with the new standards to avoid significant fines.

Takeaways

• 😀 GHS (Globally Harmonized System) standardizes chemical classification and labeling to reduce workplace injuries and fatalities.
• 😀 GHS will be implemented in the U.S. starting December 1st, 2013, with gradual phase-ins by OSHA.
• 😀 The new system helps employees identify chemical hazards more easily by using consistent labeling and data sheets.
• 😀 There are over 5 million U.S. workplaces where employees could be exposed to hazardous chemicals, making GHS critical.
• 😀 Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) will now be called Safety Data Sheets (SDS) under GHS, with 16 standardized sections.
• 😀 The hazard rating system will be reversed: categories now range from 1 (severe hazard) to 5 (minimal hazard).
• 😀 Chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to use a harmonized label with a signal word, pictogram, hazard statement, and precautionary statement.
• 😀 The new system will help prevent 43 fatalities and 585 injuries/illnesses annually, according to OSHA estimates.
• 😀 OSHA predicts that the GHS system will save U.S. businesses an estimated $475 million annually in enhanced productivity.
• 😀 Employers who fail to comply with GHS requirements may face fines ranging from $7,000 to $70,000, depending on the infraction severity.

Q & A

What is the Globally Harmonized System (GHS)?

GHS is the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, a standardized system designed to communicate chemical hazards worldwide.

When will GHS begin to be implemented in the United States?

GHS will start to be phased in on December 1st, 2013, according to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

What is the purpose of GHS in the workplace?

The purpose of GHS is to standardize chemical labels and safety data sheets, making it easier to identify chemical hazards and reduce workplace injuries and fatalities.

How many workplaces in the U.S. could be affected by GHS?

There are over 5 million workplaces in the U.S. where employees could be exposed to hazardous chemicals, making GHS relevant for these environments.

What is changing with the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) under GHS?

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) will be replaced by Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which will have a standardized format with 16 sections.

How will the hazard ratings change under GHS?

The hazard ratings will reverse order. The new categories are: 1 (severe hazard), 2 (serious hazard), 3 (moderate hazard), 4 (slight hazard), and 5 (minimal hazard).

What must chemical manufacturers and importers provide under GHS?

They must provide labels that include a harmonized signal word, a pictogram, a hazard statement for each hazard class and category, and a precautionary statement.

How will GHS affect fatalities, injuries, and illnesses in the U.S.?

OSHA estimates that the new GHS standard will help prevent 43 fatalities and 585 injuries and illnesses annually.

What are the estimated financial benefits of GHS for U.S. businesses?

The implementation of GHS is expected to result in enhanced productivity and save approximately $475 million each year for U.S. businesses.

What penalties could employers face for non-compliance with GHS?

Employers could face fines of $7,000 per infraction and up to $70,000 for repeat violations under GHS regulations.