Globally Harmonized System (GHS) Awareness

1. The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) is a classification and communication system for hazardous materials. The Hazardous Communication Standard (HCS) through OSHA is aligned with the GHS with a goal of classifying chemicals and communicating hazards consistently.

2. The GHS is not a regulation, but guidelines for manufacturers on how to communicate, train, and label hazardous chemicals.

3. The GHS "Purple Book'' is the book of hazardous chemical classifications which includes explanations on how to apply the classification system, what classification to give hazardous materials, and standardizes documents like Safety Data Sheets.

4. The information required on a GHS label are Signal Word, Hazard Statements, Precautionary Statements and Pictograms, Product Identifier, and Supplier Identification.

5. The GHS also requires Safety Data Sheets (SDS) in workplaces. SDS give information specific to hazardous materials and gives global consistency on information.

6. There are 16 sections required on SDS that go in the following order: Identification, Hazard identification, Composition/information on ingredients, First-aid measure, Fire-fighting measures, Accidental release measures, Handling and storage, Exposure control/personal protection, Physical and chemical properties, Chemical stability and reactivity, Toxicological information, Ecological information, Disposal consideration, Transport information, Regulatory information, and Other information.

7. What chemicals will you be using today? Have you looked at the label to see the pictogram used? What is the Hazard Statement?

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