Globally Harmonized System of Classification or GHS is the method of classification and labeling of all chemical substances that are hazardous in nature. This system of classification has been initiated by the United Nations because it was felt rightly that each country had its own incompatible system of classification of explosives, inflammables and other hazardous chemical substances. This led to a fair amount of confusion while trying to understand each other’s individual perception of such substances with their associated links with different symbols.
Further grave problems were experienced when hazardous substances were transported through different countries that did not know what these substances were and more importantly how the related hazards were to be combated or tackled. It was natural to develop a common platform globally that would cut across member nations and establish a common base of classification that would be understood by all.
GHS was introduced with the noble objective to define the perceived threat emanating from the hazardous substances to health and the environment. Thereafter, the classification was to be linked to the associated hazards, the protective measures that would be necessary and the method by which these were to be labeled. The entire process was to be complied with eventually globally over an unspecified time frame.
However, it must be understood that GHS is not a regulation. It is also not a law. There is no requirement to comply with the new classification within a stipulated time period. Globally, we need to move towards the new system of associating a chemical with its hazard and, thereafter, prepare a label or the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). It may be necessary to have the label as well as the SDS.
What are the expectations from the new system other than what has been stated? It is expected that with the setting up of the new order there would be a reduced number of accidents and incidents related to chemicals. The health costs are expected to fall. The protection to the workers in a hazardous environment will increase, resulting in increased profits to the corporate sector due to the drop in accidents and incidents.
For further information on GHS and MSDS please visit http://www.nexreg.com/
Tags: CCCR, EU SDS, GHS, GHS MSDS, MSDS, MSDS authoring, OSHA MSDS, REACH compliance, WHMIS, WHMIS MSDS