Labelservice doesn’t just print labels – we keep up to date on rules and regulations regarding the labelling of products. From food products to chemical products, we help our customers stay on the right side of these regulations. The UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) is a good example of how we help. By keeping up to date on the GHS, we can help our customers understand what’s needed on their labels.
The GHS refers to a set of standards surrounding the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) as well as labelling of hazardous chemical containers. For companies, universities, governments, and any other entity that use or handle dangerous chemicals in the workplace to adhere to a unified set of standards, GHS was created, and it applies across the planet. Having one set of rules all over the world like this makes it easier for label consistencies to be maintained and for everyone to interpret what each type of label means. In short, it keeps everyone on the same page.
In the long-term, it makes the process of labelling and using hazardous chemicals easier, safer and less confusing for everyone. However, to reach the point at which you can experience those benefits, you first need to take time to understand the GHS labelling system and what everything means. When you’ve done that, you’ll be able to label hazardous chemicals properly without any issues at all.
Adherence to the GHS system ensures that everyone in the world who deals with dangerous chemicals understands the labels used. It avoids confusion and helps prevent dangerous situations from arising. Hazardous chemicals are frequently shipped across borders, and that’s why the global aspect of the labelling system is so significant. It’s vital that the meaning of a label is the same across all work platforms around the world.
Compliance with the GHS labelling system is relatively easy. Using things like label templates and understanding the requirements is all that it takes. Note that GHS compliance is not enforceable under UN international law, but each country’s workplace regulatory system enforces it. Nevertheless, any business or institution that wants to be taken seriously and worked with will need to comply with GHS labelling standards. Most regulatory agencies will make it clear that companies and institutions must comply with GHS as well.
By having a better understanding of the GHS labelling system, you can see why the system has value and why it helps businesses and institutions to keep their workplace safer. We’ll work with you to ensure your chemical labels are proper and clear.
