In the late 1980s, the Federal Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards, 29 CFR 1910.1200, better known as the "Hazard Communications" or "Right-to-Know" standard, was proposed and adopted into law. This regulation stood for more than 20 years with only minor changes. Due to the global economy where it is common place to conduct business in multiple countries, OSHA has proposed the first significant change to the Hazard Communication regulation. The tidal wave of change is about to come crashing down.
                         
Because countries throughout the world have developed and maintained their own system of classifying and communicating chemical hazards, standardization has become difficult for businesses operating in a global market. Two key elements of a comprehensive program include labeling and the use of chemical-specific safety data sheets, each of which vary greatly in content, format, language and hazard identification.

In 1992, during the United Nations’ Rio Conference on Environment and Development, a new way of defining and classifying hazards was introduced and the idea of a Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals was announced. This system is designed to replace numerous programs with a single uniform process of classifying and communicating chemical hazards.

Why make the change to GHS?
The global chemical industry generates approximately $1.7 trillion per year, with approximately $450 billion of that amount from the United States alone. Chemicals affect the lives of every human whether it is related to the handling of our food, health care products or the goods we consume on a daily basis. Chemical management is necessary in order to recognize and communicate the hazards to all individuals who are potentially exposed to these products.

The GHS hazard classification divides chemical-types into three different categories: physical hazards, health hazards and environmental hazards. Each of the classes and associated subcategories are presented in the table below.

After each material has been categorized according to GHS criteria, the hazards need to be communicated to individuals who use them. Most communication methods are through the use of labeling and material safety data sheets (MSDS). In reference to these items, the following GHS guidelines have been established for communication:

• Symbols (hazard pictograms): Convey physical, health and environmental hazard information
• Signal Words: "Danger" or "Warning" will be used to emphasize hazards and indicate the relative level of severity of the hazard
• Hazard Statements: Standard phrases assigned to a hazard class and category that describe the nature of the hazard
• Precautionary Statements: Measures to minimize or prevent adverse
• Product Identifier (ingredient disclosure): Name or number used for a hazardous product on a label or in the MSDS
• Supplier Identification: The name, address and telephone number should be provided on the label
• Supplemental Information: Non-harmonized information on the container of a hazardous product that is not required or specified under the GHS

The goal of hazard communications is for employers to provide education to their employees about the hazards of the chemicals to which they are potentially exposed, and to ensure preventive measures are taken to protect their health and safety.

GHS states training should include information on the content of the new standard, how to read labels and safety data sheets as well as how to respond safely to chemical hazards. It will essentially be the same as the Hazard Communications Standard.

There are some benefits to be realized with the new GHS regulation. The biggest benefit will be all safety data sheets (SDS) will have the same format, consistent terminology and uniform hazard assessments. Other benefits include the following:

• Protection of human health and the environment by providing a consistent, global system
• Improved protection of workers
• Reduction in the costs of enforcement
• A safer work environment and improved relations with employees
• Improved safety for workers and others through standardized communications
• Greater awareness of hazards, resulting in safer use of chemicals in the workplace and in the home

The implementation dates for GHS have not been set because the regulated 90-day comment period has recently ended (September 30, 2009 – December 29, 2009).