GHS - Hazard Communication Standard 2012 - 403

This rule is OSHA's most comprehensive rulemaking in a decade. It impacts over five million business that use or store chemicals, and 90,000 chemical manufacturers, importers, and distributors. 

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is now aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This update to the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) will provide a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. Once implemented, the revised standard will improve the quality and consistency of hazard information in the workplace, making it safer for workers by providing easily understandable information on appropriate handling and safe use of hazardous chemicals. 

This update will also help reduce trade barriers and result in productivity improvements for American businesses that regularly handle, store, and use hazardous chemicals while providing cost savings for American businesses that periodically update safety data sheets and labels for chemicals covered under the hazard communication standard.

Major changes to the Hazard Communication Standard includes:

• Hazard classification: provides specific criteria for classification of health and physical hazards, as well as classification of mixtures
• Labels: Chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to provide a label that includes a harmonized signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazards class and category. 
• Precautionary statements must also be provided. 
• Safety Data Sheets: Will now have a specified 16-section format 
• Information and Training: Employers are required to train workers by December 1, 2013 on the new labels elements and safety data sheets format to facilitate recognition and understanding.