Does OSHA use GHS?

The pictograms OSHA has adopted improve worker safety and health, conform with the GHS, and are used worldwide. While the GHS uses a total of nine pictograms, OSHA will only enforce the use of eight. The environmental pictogram is not mandatory but may be used to provide additional information.

What is OSHA GHS?

GHS stands for the Globally Harmonized System of the Classification and Labelling of Chemicals. It is a set of guidelines for ensuring the safe production, transport, handling, use and disposal of hazardous materials. OSHA’s adoption is actually a revision of the Hazard Communication Standard to align with the GHS.

When did us implement GHS?

March 26, 2012
Published in the Federal Register on March 26, 2012, the adoption of GHS ushered in a new era of Hazard Communication for the United States.

What does GHS include?

The GHS includes criteria for the classification of health, physical and environmental hazards, as well as specifying what information should be included on labels of hazardous chemicals as well as safety data sheets.

Is GHS required?

The newly revised HCS outlines eight specific GHS pictograms for use on labels. Each is surrounded by a red border and designed to convey the health and physical hazards of chemicals. In addition to the new labeling requirements, chemical manufacturers now must supply customers with a GHS-standardized, 16-section SDS.

Is GHS mandatory?

Is the adoption of GHS mandatory for all countries around the globe/world? No. The GHS is a ‘non-binding’ system of hazard communication. However, as mentioned above, there are many benefits when it is voluntarily adopted by countries around the globe.