Globally Harmonized System (GHS) Information
At Labelmaster, we strive to keep you up-to-date on the GHS and OSHA's updates to its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). That's why Labelmaster offers an unmatched selection of GHS and Hazcom products, GHS training resources and GHS label options to keep your workplace compliant and safe.
What is GHS?
The UN Globally Harmonized System (GHS) is a
classification system developed to provide an international standard and harmonization for the classification and labeling of chemicals. It is meant to:
- Protect human health and the environment by providing an international system for hazard communication.
- Classify the hazards of chemicals and communicate those hazards and precautionary information using safety data sheets and labels.
- Provide a recognized framework for countries without a system to facilitate international trade.
- Provide consistency in hazard communication to ease compliance, encourage the safe transport, handling and use of chemicals and promote better emergency response to chemical incidents.
- Reduce the need for testing chemicals on animals.
GHS: A New Approach to Workplace Hazard Communication
Are you ready for the single biggest change to workplace safety communication in nearly 30 years? This animated video is a great place to start.
GHS White Paper
GHS Impact on U.S. Chemical Manufacturers:
Regulatory Changes and Practical Guidance
Chemical manufacturers bear the brunt of changes brought about in OSHA's 2012 Hazard Communication Standard. With the first deadline approaching, which requires employee training be completed by December 1, 2013, the meticulous work of classifying
chemicals, compiling data for publication in the new safety data sheet format and changing labels is just beginning for U.S. chemical producers. NOTE: Paper has been revised - November 2014.
Dangerous Goods Report, Vol. 2
Understanding the Globally Harmanized System
for Classification and Labeling of Chemicals
If you are confused about how the implementation of the GHS for classification and labeling of chemicals is going to impact your business, you are not alone. With key implementation deadlines on the calendar this year, people in all kinds of industries
are scrambling to find out what they need to do to comply, and when these changes must be completed.
GHS Infographic
GHS - A New Approach to Workplace Hazard Communication
Competing in the global marketplace is an increasingly challenging proposition when supply chains cross boarders, languages and international regulations. One way governments and regulatory agencies are helping to facilitate international trade —
and improve employee safety — is through the adoption of globally harmonized standards for hazard communication.
GHS Label Requirements
The following GHS Label Requirements infographic outlines an example of the major elements of a GHS label.
The symbols, signal words, and hazard statements have all been standardized and assigned to specific hazard
categories and classes. This makes it easier for companies to comply with the GHS regulations.
Click image to enlarge.
| Hazard Statement | Precautionary Statement | First Aid Statement | Supplier Identification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Product Identifier | Pictograms | Signal Word |
| The scientific designation of a chemical in accordance with the nomenclature system developed by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) or the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) rules of nomenclature, or a name that will clearly
identify the chemical for the purpose of conducting a hazard classification.
GHS 1.4.10.5.2(d)
| The name or number used for a hazardous chemical on a label of in the SDS. It provides a unique means by which the user can identify the chemical. The product identifier used shall permit cross-references to be made among the list of hazardous
chemicals required in the written hazard communication program, the label and the SDS.
GHS 1.4.10.5.2(d)
| A composition that may include a symbol plus other graphic elements, such as a border, background pattern, or color, that is intended to convey specific information about the hazards of a chemical. Eight pictograms are designated under HCS and
nine pictograms are designated under GHS for application to a hazard category.
GHS 1.4.10.4
| A word used to indicate the relative level of severity of hazard and alert the reader to a potential hazard on the label. The signal words used in this section are "danger" and "warning". "Danger" is used for more severe hazards, while "warning"
is used for the less severe.
GHS 1.4.10.5.2(a)
|
| A statement assigned to a hazard class and category that describes the nature of the hazard(s) of the chemical, including, where appropriate, the degree of hazard.
Example:Fatal if swallowed. GHS 1.4.10.5.2(b)
| A phrase that describes recommended measures that should be taken to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous chemical or improper storage or handling.
Example:Do not eat, drink, or smoke when using this product. GHS 1.4.10.5.2(c)
| There are four types of precautionary statements presented, "prevention", "response", "storage", and "disposal".
GHS 1.4.10.5.2(d)
| The name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer, importer, or other responsible party.
GHS 1.4.10.5.2(e)
|
The GHS Poster | The GHS Card |
 These large, 28" x 20" GHS Wall Posters give your employees quick reference to understand the new GHS labels. The poster features an explanation of all parts of the new label.
|  These handy wallet-sized GHS cards provide a quick and easy GHS reference for employees. Great for distribution with your training programs.
|
GHS Compliant MSDS-SDS Conversion
Labelmaster has teamed with an industry authority to offer
you the best in MSDS to SDS conversion. Fast and convenient, we save you time and help keep your company compliant. Learn more about this great SDS conversion service.
GHS Products from Labelmaster
Labelmaster has the HCS/GHS/SDS training products your company will need to comply with the GHS standard. More HCS and GHS products are available, including specifically design pictogram GHS Labels.
GHS and HCS Regulatory Updates
OSHA has published its Hazcom 2012 final rule that modifies the current hazard communication standard to align with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This modification was made in order to improve the quality and consistency of hazard information to make it safer for workers to do their jobs, and make it easier for employers to stay competitive. By December 1, 2013 employers must train employees on the new hazcom label elements and safety data sheet (SDS) format. Labelmaster has been closely following the new hazard communications standard and is a name you can trust to provide you with all your GHS labeling, regulatory and marking requirements. Labelmaster GHS labels use the standard GHS pictograms to depict the recommended measures that should be taken to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous product. These GHS labels and GHS markings also instruct users how to minimize improper storage or handling of hazardous materials. Turn to Labelmaster for GHS training products and labeling resources you need to comply with the new standard including the GHS "Purple Book", GHS training programs and manuals and much more. See Labelmaster's blog for more on the revised OSHA Hazcom Standard and GHS. Check back regularly for updates. Labelmaster is closely following these regulatory developments and will continue to provide updates as they become available. You can trust Labelmaster to provide you with all your GHS regulatory, labeling and marking requirements. And for a thorough, side-by-side comparison of changes from OSHA's existing Hazard Communication Standard to the revised Hazard Communication Standard relating to GHS, please visit osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/side-by-side.html. |
GHS and HCS Webinar SeriesLabelmaster has presented several free GHS training webinars. View the GHS training videos below. Watch here for future GHS webinars added to the schedule. Past GHS Webinars |  |