Hazard Communication and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS)
Related keywords: chemical hazard communication, Globally Harmonized System - GHS
Thousands of products and materials found in today's workplaces contain hazardous chemicals that can cause health problems from minor skin irritations to serious injuries or diseases like cancer.
Hazard communication rules were developed to make sure information about inherently hazardous chemicals is provided to employers and ultimately to employees so they become informed about chemical hazards found in the workplace. These rules apply if you:
- Have employees with potential for exposure to hazardous chemicals at work.
- Distribute hazardous chemicals to employers.
- Manufacture (produce) or import hazardous chemicals.
Washington State's Hazard Communication (GHS) Rule, Chapter 296-901, WAC became effective April 15, 2013.
The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals has already been incorporated into federal OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard. As a result, you may see new labels on shipped containers of chemicals that display the GHS pictograms and information. Also, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) are starting to be phased out and replaced by newly required Safety Data Sheets (SDSs). Although content details on labels and SDSs are affected by the GHS, many of the current requirements are not changing. For example, requirements to distribute SDSs, label workplace containers, and train employees will remain the same.
To learn more about GHS in Washington State, read Questions and Answers: Hazard Communication Standard. To learn more about how GHS started, visit OSHA's webpage.
Washington State's new Hazard Communication Standard, WAC 296-901-140, is substantially identical to OSHA's rule and compliance in our state will be phased in on the following schedule:
| Who | What | By |
| Employers | Train employees on the safety data sheet (SDS) format and new label elements. | June 1, 2014 |
| Chemical manufacturers and importers | Comply with new SDS and label requirements. | June 1, 2015 |
| Distributors | Not to ship unless container has GHS (Global Harmonization System) label. | December 1, 2015 |
| Employers | Update labels on "workplace" containers and train employees on newly identified hazards. Update the Hazard Communication Program, as needed. | June 1, 2016 |
| All | Until the dates listed in this table you may comply with the:
And/OR
|
Related topics:
- Air contaminants (General)
- Emergency Washing
- Emergency Response
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Pesticides
- Process safety management (PSM)
- Recordkeeping and Reporting (OSHA 300 log)
- Respiratory Protection
- Right to Know (Employer Fee Assessment)
- Right to Know (Worker)
- Spill Clean-up (Hazardous substances)
How can I get help from L&I?
- To request a confidential workplace safety or health consultation, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/about.asp for no charge technical assistance.
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- Find information about filing a workplace safety & health complaint you may call or visit a local L&I office to file a complaint.
- Follow guidance in Steps To a Safe Workplace to create your safety program from scratch.
- For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.
