At Last, GHS Final Implementation Arrives

The final Globally Harmonized System implementation date has finally arrived.

The 1983 Hazard Communication Standard gave the workers the right to know, but the new GHS gives workers the right to understand.

Therefore, on June 1, 2016, employers are required to have updated alternative workplace labeling and a hazard communication program as necessary, and provide additional employee training for newly identified physical or health hazards.

This completes the three year transition period from the December 2013 initial implementation date.

Beginning next month, companies will operate under a single set of criteria for classifying chemicals according to their health and physical hazards.

The new rules specify hazard communication elements for labeling and include information on safety data sheets.

The new hazard communication standard will require chemical manufacturers and importers to evaluate the chemicals they produce or import and provide hazard information to employers and workers by putting labels on containers and preparing safety data sheets.