ARE YOU READY FOR GHS?

There has been an overwhelming amount of industry chatter regarding the GHS additions to the HCS Rule.  So much confusion out there…but it needn’t be confusing or difficult.  First of all, as stated many times in this BLOG, there is plenty of time to meet the labeling requirements of GHS.  Secondly, until updated SDS forms have been received from your suppliers, there isn’t much you can do in regards to labeling.  This writer cautions anyone from hastily jumping into any kind of conversion software.  There is data required in the SDS and further, on GHS labels, that simply is not available in old, out of date MSDS forms.   

What is needed now is training.  OSHA is well aware that the most confusing element of the new GHS components is the symbols.  Trainers are likely to be reminded of the days when we were teaching what the rating numbers meant in the old NFPA and HAZCOM systems .  Now we have a total of 8 OSHA required symbols and a 9^th symbol added in by ANSI.  To complicate issues, the symbols have a variety of meanings.  The meanings are not contradictory, but beware that you do not over simplify them in your training sessions.   SAFETYCAL® has created a complete GHS Pocket Card for your employees to carry in pocket or wallet.  We also have a full size Poster.  Both are “must-haves” as we all transition to this new method.

What’s next?  Certainly, if your training is completed and documented, and you have updated SDS forms, getting started on labeling projects is the next step.  SAFETYCAL® is your answer here.  Our new EZMAKE® SIGNSYSTEM will make creating GHS labels quick and EZ!  Affordable and user friendly, this software, with its newly updated programming, works with your office type Laser Printer to create outdoor durable signs and labels.

In the end…GHS is here to stay.  And with its many benefits, this new addition to the HCS rule will create a safer workplace.

For all of your Sign, GHS, Tagging or Facility Marking needs, allow us to serve you.

Call 800-446-3525 or email us at info@safetycal.com

NEWLY RELEASED UPDATED EZMAKE® SIGN SYSTEM

The NEW EZMAKE® SIGN SYSTEM IS READY FOR TAKE-OFF!

SAFETYCAL is proud to present our NEW and IMPROVED version of The EZMAKE® SIGN SYSTEM.  This simple, cost effective software system is ready to launch you into compliance with a few clicks of your mouse.   

Yes, it is true!  Sign making made EZ, that is our goal.   With more features, more sizes, bigger image libraries and our signature outdoor durable,. weather proof media, you are sure to be as pleased as we are with the results.  

The EZMAKE® Software loads easily onto your computer or server.  And in just a few moments you are ready to make Standard style or ANSI style Signs / Labels, create your own Pipe Markers, Valve Tags or Lockout Tags.   In addition, you can meet the new GHS requirements with confidence with our simple point-n-click GHS module.

Information or on-line demos are available by contacting us at 800-446-3525 or emailing us at  info@safetycal.com

GHS vs DOT

DOT compared to GHS?
As previously stated, GHS elements have been added to the Hazardous Communication Standard.  Although we all seem to be referring to GHS as a rule in itself, it has, in fact been incorporated into what already existed, and thus updating the HCS to meet global standards.
That said, it is important to understand that DOT’s definitions have matched up with the United Nations’ recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous goods for some time.  With OSHA aligning with the physical hazard classifications of DOT, workplace labeling will now be seamless.  This ease of implementation will allow the end user workplace to maintain continuity in labeling and understand of the chemicals as they are received.  The dock worker to the manufacturing plant employees will all be viewing and understanding the same information.  Not to mention the HazMat Clean Up crews to the Fire Department.  From here forward, the consistency in information will be a benefit to all.
SAFETYCAL® is hard at work putting together all the labeling products you will need to meet the rule head-on with confidence.  For now, send us an email to be put on our announcement list when these products are ready to launch you into compliance.   Visit us at www.safetycal.com
This information is offered for evaluation and discussion only.  For more information contact your local OSHA representative or go to http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html 

GHS and STATE COMPLIANCE

How do State plans stand up?
There are 27 States and U.S. Territories that have OSHA approved occupational S & H plans.  They are Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, N Carolina, Oregon, Puerto Rico, S Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wyoming, Connecticut, Illinois New Jersey, New York and the Virgin Islands. 
Even though these States have currently approved HCS regulations in place, they MUST revise their standards to include the GHS modifications to the HCS.  The adoption needs to take place within six months of the publication of the final rule by Federal OSHA. 
SAFETYCAL® is hard at work putting together all the labeling products you will need to meet the rule head-on with confidence.  For now, send us an email to be put on our announcement list when these products are ready to launch you into compliance.   Visit us at www.safetycal.com
This information is offered for evaluation and discussion only.  For more information contact your local OSHA representative or go to http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html 

GHS FEASIBLITY

Is GHS really feasible? 
 
One of the requirements for any OSHA rule is that it be feasible.  The added elements of the GHS to the revised Hazard Communication Standard are in fact, very feasible.
While the modifications of the labels and the format of the SDS must both be adjusted to fit these new elements, employers will be able to use their current methods of training to comply.  Yes, the content of the training changes.  Yes, there are new pictograms to understand and there is a format change to the display of the information.  Where in the past an employee may have been able to gather PPE information at a quick glance, they must now read the text as provided on the label before beginning their task.  However, the fact remains that employers’ must train, must label and must maintain accurate and up to date SDS on file for all chemicals within their facility.
Remember, the updated HCS Rule states the following:
“Labels are intended to provide an immediate visual reminder of chemical hazards.  Whereas labels in the past could be presented in a variety of formats using inconsistent terminology and visual elements, labels prepared in accordance with the requirements in this final rule will be consistent.  Standardized signal words and hazard statements attract attention and communicate the degree of hazard.  Pictograms reinforce the message presented in text and enhance communication for low-literacy populations.  Precautionary statements provide useful instruction for protecting against chemical-source injuries and illness”
The rule states -- see (f)(1)(i) thru (f)(1)(v) -- that every container, save these "immediate use" containers must be labeled with the following: Product Identifier, Signal Word, Hazard Statements, Pictograms and Precautionary Statements.  This information will be found on your SDS and should be supplied by your Chemical Supplier.
SAFETYCAL® is hard at work putting together all the labeling products you will need to meet the rule head-on with confidence.  For now, send us an email to be put on our announcement list when these products are ready to launch you into compliance.   Visit us at www.safetycal.com
 
This information is offered for evaluation and discussion only.  For more information contact your local OSHA representative or go to http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html