GHS…And there is more!

Yes, it is true!  There is much more to the new HCS rule than just the GHS changes!

Over the past year we have all been focused on the new GHS portion of the revised HCS rule.  However, there are many additional changes that need to be discussed.

Beginning next year (June 2015) there are several wording changes on the horizon for ASBESTOS, CADMIUM, LEAD and METHYLENEDIANILINE (MDA).   

In addition, there are changes to Flammable Liquid Storage limits.

Suffice it to say, SAFETYCAL is on the job!  We have solutions for all of your labeling needs.  Check into this Blog regularly for updates regarding new wording requirements.

GHS vs HCS

GHS vs HCS...

It is commonly thought that the GHS was fully adopted by OSHA.  However, OSHA the GHS is not a model standard but rather a building block standard.  This meaning that portions of the rule can be adopted without adopting in its entirety.  That said, OSHA has adopted only the portions that pertain and are appropriate to their regulations.  Specifically OSHA adopted the GHS classification criteria, provisions for labeling and provisions for SDS.  There were provisions already in existence in the HCS as we knew it.  And therefore it made logical sense to adopt these “upgrades” and incorporate them into the OSHA HCS.  All this really means is that although we commonly refer to the “new GHS rule” what we are all really saying is the “revised HCS rule with changes that were initiated by the GHS”


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 - Who is Affected?

Who all needs to comply with GHS?

In the new GHS Rule, OSHA states that "Every workplace in OSHA's jurisdiction in which employees are exposed to hazardous chemicals is covered by the HCS and is required to have a Hazard Communication Program"  That said, there is technically no change in "who" need to fall in line with the GHS revisions.

Clearly, OSHA is intent on keeping consistency among industry as best they can.  However, in another section of the GHS, OSHA does acknowledge that many of their own communications of hazard requirements have been inconsistent.  While some standards reference the HCS, some do not.  To clear up this confusion, they have written a "Hazard Communication-General" paragraph that states that all Chemical Manufactures must comply with HCS.  It further states that all Employers shall comply with HCS and ensure that employees have access to Labels, SDS and are properly trained.

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