GHS Update: Time to Think

Here's a quick review of what employees need to learn about the SDS and new GHS labels.
Safety Data Sheets

• Section 1—Identification—includes product identifier, manufacturer or distributor name, address, phone number, emergency phone number, recommended use, and restrictions on use
• Section 2—Hazard(s) identification—includes all hazards regarding the chemical and required label elements
• Section 3—Composition/Information on ingredients—includes information on chemical ingredients and trade secret claims
• Section 4—First-aid measures—includes important immediate or delayed symptoms of exposure to a chemical and the required first aid treatment
• Section 5—Fire-fighting measures—lists suitable extinguishing techniques, equipment, and chemical hazards from fire
• Section 6—Accidental release measures—lists emergency procedures, protective equipment, and proper methods of containment and cleanup
• Section 7—Handling and storage—lists precautions for safe handling and storage, including incompatibilities

• Section 8—Exposure controls/Personal protection—lists OSHA's permissible exposure limits (PELs), threshold limit values (TLVs), appropriate engineering controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Section 9—Physical and chemical properties—lists the chemical’s characteristics
• Section 10—Stability and reactivity—lists chemical stability and possible hazardous reactions
• Section 11—Toxicological information—includes routes of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or absorption contact), symptoms, acute and chronic effects, and numerical measures of toxicity
• Section 12—Ecological information—how the chemical might affect the environment and the duration of the effect
• Section 13—Disposal considerations—describes safe handling of wastes and methods of disposal, including the disposal of any contaminated packaging
• Section 14—Transportation information—includes packing, marking, and labeling requirements for hazardous chemical shipments
• Section 15—Regulatory information—indicates regulations that apply to chemical
• Section 16—Other information—includes date of preparation or last revision

Labels

• Product identifier gives a name or number that enables you to identify the chemical and cross-reference the label to the SDS.
• Supplier information tells you the name, address, and phone number of the manufacturer, importer, or other responsible party.
• First aid information can help you act quickly and effectively in an emergency.
• In case of fire, the label tells you how to extinguish it.
• Signal word indicates the severity of the hazard.
• Hazard statements describe the nature of the hazards.
• Pictograms convey specific hazard information using symbols or graphics.
• Precautionary statements describe recommended measures to minimize or prevent injury or illness due to exposure to the chemical or from improper handling or storage.