Over 5,000 U.S. workplaces employing 43 million workers have environments that could expose workers hazardous chemicals. The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), a system for standardizing the labeling and classification of chemicals around the world, creates a common framework to help reduce confusion surrounding these chemicals.
“The overall goal of GHS is to have the same set of hazardous material classification standards used around the world to enhance protection of human health and environmental awareness,” states the new infographic from Graphic Products, “What is GHS?”
With OSHA’s new hazcom standard in place, the United States is currently in a 3-year transition period leading up to GHS compliance, which will be required in 2015. OSHA estimates that implementing GHS in the United States will save up to $250 million a year and prevent 43 fatalities and 585 injuries and illnesses. GHS also can improve communication between countries, reduce worker confusion, simplify international trade, reduce the costs associated with government enforcement and more.
