A Deadline Looms For New Hazard Communication Protocol

The first stage of a new hazardous chemical communication protocol must be implemented by December 1. The requirements of the “Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals” (GHS), which was developed by the United Nations, will be phased in over several years, but by the December 1 deadline employees will need to have completed initial training to understand new labels, including pictograms and manufacturer contact information, and a new format for safety data sheets. Training must be in the language of employees and geared to their degree of literacy.