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OSHA has adopted new hazardous chemical labeling requirements as a part of its recent revision of the Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200 (HCS), bringing it into alignment with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). These changes will help ensure improved quality and consistency in the classification and labeling of all chemicals, and give workers better information on their safe handling and use, allowing them to avoid injuries and illnesses related to exposures.
Goals of the GHS system:
- Improved workplace safety
- Few exposures
- Consistent communications
- Greater hazard awareness
- Easier compliance
- Enhanced protection
GHS impact:
- New hazard classifications that apply to chemical manufacturers and importers
- New chemical labels and designs
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) replace the old MSDS
- Employee training must cover the new labels and SDS
- Your written hazard communication plan must be updated to reflect the new labels and SDS
This OSHA Brief and OSHA Quick Card provide a full explanation of this new standard, with labels and pictograms of the new requirements.