Understanding Chemical Labels Under GHS

Course Description:

OSHA’s HazCom standard requires containers of hazardous chemicals to be labeled with information about the possible hazards associated with the chemicals and how employees can protect themselves from those hazards. Therefore, being able recognize and interpret the various components of a chemical label is essential for the safe use of chemicals. GHS ensures that all labels provide clear and consistent information.

Why “Understanding Chemical Labels Under GHS” Matters:

Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) chemical labeling requirements are part of its Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom), which is designed to ensure that you can identify and understand hazardous chemical substances in the workplace. HazCom, including chemical labeling, has been aligned with the Globally Harmonized System for Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This training session focuses on the GHS chemical label.

Key Points:

• The GHS chemical label is designed to keep you safer by standardizing the information presented about a hazardous chemical.
• Chemical labels provide brief information on the physical and health hazards presented by a chemical. Each component of a chemical label gives different information on how to protect yourself and your co-workers.
  Pictograms graphically describe the hazards of a chemical class.
• With few exceptions, hazardous chemical containers in your workplace must be labeled.
• Alternative labeling systems must be compliant with GHS information requirements.