Global Harmonization System (GHS)
Individual countries and organizations have developed regulations that define how hazard communication information for chemicals should be developed and how it should be conveyed to chemical users. These regulations are somewhat similar to each other but the differences are often significant enough to require different Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) and labels to be prepared for each country or organization. Sometimes definitions of hazards can be different – the definition of “flammable” may be different from one country to another. Because of differences like this, companies must often create different MSDSs and labels for the same product that is sold in several countries.
GHS will promote a common and consistent means for classifying chemicals and mixtures regarding their health, environmental and physical hazards. This consistency will result in MSDSs and labels that are similar.
Before GHS can be adopted in the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will have to revise the current Hazard Communication Standard and adopt the changed standard. After adoption, there will be an implementation period for U.S. companies to comply.
Sunoco is currently following this issue to ensure that we will be prepared to implement any necessary changes to our hazard communication documents. |
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