What is WHMIS?

WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. It is in place to provide information needed to ensure the safe use of hazardous chemicals in workplaces. WHMIS has four main components: hazard identification and product classification, labeling of the chemicals/products, Material Safety Data Sheets, and worker training and education. The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System is legislated by both provincial and federal jurisdictions, guaranteeing uniformity across all of the provinces and territories.

The system is a Canada-wide structure and includes regulations that affect suppliers, employers, and the labourers who will be exposed to the hazardous materials. Suppliers are required to label and prepare Material Safety Data Sheets for any products that meet the hazardous criteria lined out in the Controlled Products Regulations under the Hazardous Products Act. Employers must make certain that MSDSs are available and set up worker education sessions that teach workers the significance of labels and safety sheets and how to correctly read them. Finally, labourers must follow the safety guidelines in the MSDS sheets to provide the safest workplace possible.

The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System was created for workers who have the right to know what hazards may be associated with the materials they are exposed to. Exposure to hazardous chemicals can lead to serious safety issues such as fires, and negative health effects on many bodily organs. Knowing the hazards that may arise and the proper procedures to decrease these dangers can create a much safer working environment. WHMIS can help bring to an end the illnesses, injuries, deaths and property damage caused by hazardous materials.

About Canadian Chemical Product Labels - CCCR vs. WHMIS

There are two regulations legislating how to label chemical products in Canada. One of these is the CCCR (Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, 2001) which applies to products that will only be available to consumers. The other regulation is WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) which would apply only to those chemicals that will be used in an industrial or institutional setting.

Both types of labels demonstrate the hazards of the products as well as safety measures to take into consideration while using the product. However, each regulation has specific requirements that the label must fulfill in order to be compliant.

CCCR labels are divided into two parts: a main display panel and a secondary panel. On the main display panel, the hazard symbol(s) must be displayed as well as the signal word and primary hazard statement(s). On the secondary display panel, specific hazard statements, negative and positive instructions, and first aid treatment statements relating to the hazard must be listed. All information in the secondary panel must be enclosed in a border. In addition, all statements on both panels must be in English and French. Finally, the CCCR sets out specific size requirements that must be fulfilled in order to be compliant.

WHMIS labels are slightly different. There is only one panel which contains all information. All information on the label must be enclosed in a hatched border. It must list the product identifier, the supplier identifier, hazard symbols, risk phrases, precautionary measures and first aid measures, when appropriate.

What information does WHMIS MSDSs contain to make the workplace safer?

WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System and is the Canadian wide regulation regarding how to classify chemicals and label them for the workplace. WHMIS also regulates what information must be included on material safety data sheets (MSDS) in all industrial and institutional settings in Canada.

The purpose of a WHMIS MSDS is to educate workers on the hazards of the chemicals they are exposed to in order to make the workplace a safer environment for everyone involved. There are many statements that must be in place on a WHMIS MSDS that can help lead to a safer organization.

One section on every WHMIS MSDS lists first aid measures in cases of skin contact, eye contact, inhalation and ingestion. In an accident situation, this information can help lessen the injury a person suffers. There is also a section on firefighting measures listing the products flammability, explosion data and other information that may help firefighters a great deal in an emergency situation. Handling and storage requirements are listed under another section which, if followed properly, will create a safe environment where the chemical is stored and used. Accidental release measures, personal protective equipment that is required, the stability and reactivity of the chemical and toxicological information are other statements that can ensure a worker’s safety if they are familiar with this data.

The most important aspect of WHMIS MSDSs is employee training. Even if a WHMIS MSDS is available, it will not be of much help if the workers using the chemical in question are not familiar with the data sheet or understand what they are reading.

Where can I get MSDSs?

Any controlled product that is used in the workplace is required to have an accompanied material safety data sheet (MSDS) that outlines all the hazards of the chemicals and any precautionary measures to ensure a safer environment. It is the responsibility of the employer to ensure that these MSDSs are provided.

There are a few places where you can gain access to the MSDS for a certain product. One option is to get the MSDS directly from the manufacturer or supplier. Typically, these parties would have an MSDS in place at their facility and can provide a copy to you if needed.

The internet is another place where you can get the MSDSs you require for your business. There are many online databases with MSDSs for various products. In addition, the company where you purchase the product from may have a MSDS available online.

Finally, you can get a MSDS for your product from a professional regulatory consulting agency. Many regulatory companies offer MSDS authoring and can create the safety data sheet for you. Generally, they also offer technical translations and can prepare your MSDS in whichever languages you require. Having a professional author your MSDS will ensure that it conforms to the required regulations in your jurisdiction. Material safety data sheets from the internet or supplier are fine, but they may not be compliant with the specific regulations in your area; for example, it may be an OSHA MSDS and you require a WHMIS MSDS because your company is located in Canada.

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What Are The Differences Between A GHS SDS And A MSDS?

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) has developed a standard for the creation of safety data sheets (SDS) to be used once the GHS system is adopted globally. Currently, there are many systems in place to guide the authoring of material safety data sheets (MSDS) including ISO, ANSI, OSHA and MSDS for different jurisdictions. GHS plans to merge all of these different regulations into one international system to create a safer environment for chemical use.

One difference between the GHS SDS and another form of a MSDS is that GHS SDSs require you to use their product identifier, hazard statements and pictograms to demonstrate the hazards, where another MSDS will use the symbols and statements from their regulations.

Another difference is that GHS SDSs will follow a strict 16-section layout. Currently, most MSDSs can range from nine sections to sixteen depending on the authoring party.

Because an MSDS does not have as strict of a format as the GHS SDS, authors are free to use the same format as the GHS SDS, so they may appear alike. WHMIS MSDSs, for example, also use a 16-section format. Each section has the same data so a WHMIS MSDS may look very similar to a GHS SDS, however, the symbols and product identifier will still vary between the two.

OSHA Hazard Labels

The purpose of an OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) hazard label is to provide an immediate visual reminder of the hazards of the chemical. Every OSHA label requires three items to be considered compliant. The complete chemical name is required as well as the full company contact information. Finally, OSHA labels must include a short warning to potential users pertaining to the hazards the chemical poses. In addition, any well substantiated chronic health hazards, such as carcinogenicity or developmental toxicity, as well as target organ effects must be stated on the label.

There are no specific requirements as to what text must be used, as long as the appropriate warnings are included in the label. OSHA permits the use of graphics on labels to convey the physical or health hazards that the product may pose, as long as they are appropriate and apply to the hazard being demonstrated. OSHA refers to the American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) Standard Z129.1 to provide guidelines on what statements and signal words to include on an OSHA label. The most common signal words are Caution, Warning, and Danger, in order of increasing severity. However, even though OSHA cites the ANSI Z129.1 standard, it is only for guidance and adherence is not required by law.

How Is The GHS To Be Applied?

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is organized in a pyramid structure to eventually promote the safe use of chemicals in all settings. The first step of the pyramid is GHS Classification. This step is in place to ensure the safe use of chemicals by being able to identify the hazards that pertain to them. The second tier of the pyramid would apply to GHS communication. This step involves GHS safety data sheets and labels. This pertains to step one by communicating the information on each chemical to the audience who requires it, such as workers and consumers. The next step is geared towards existing national programs such as risk management systems to lead to an overall program on a secure management of chemicals. The basic goal of these systems is to minimize chemical exposure, therefore reducing the risk of injury or accidents. The end result, after each of these steps has been put into place, will hopefully be safer use of chemicals.

The (GHS covers all hazardous chemicals, which includes substances, products, mixtures, and all other terms that may be used in existing systems to apply to chemicals.

OSHA Label: Standards and Suggestions

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) came into effect in the United States to secure the health and safety of industrial chemical workers when using hazardous chemicals within the work environment. The Hazard Communication Standard 1910.1200 provides the necessary regulations for employers and employees within the industrial chemical industry to ensure this safety.

The OSHA label requirements for regulated chemicals are stated under the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) 1910.1200. Section (f)(1) of the HCS states it is the chemical manufacturer, importer, or distributor’s responsibility to ensure the OSHA label of a hazardous chemical leaving the workplace contains:

i)Identity of the hazardous chemical(s)

ii)Appropriate hazard warnings

iii)Name and address of the chemical manufacturer, importer, or responsible party

Section (f)(5) states it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the OSHA label of a hazardous chemical in the workplace contains:

i)Identity of the hazardous chemicals(s) contained therein

ii)Appropriate hazard warnings, or alternatively, words, pictures, symbols, or combination thereof, which provide at least general information regarding the hazards of the chemicals, and which, in conjunction with the other information immediately available to employees under the hazard communication program, will provide employees with the specific information regarding the physical and health hazards of the hazardous chemical

Section (f)(5) does not need to apply if sections (f)(6) or (f)(7) are followed:

(f)(6) The employer may use signs, placards, process sheets, batch tickets, operating procedures, or other such written materials in lieu of affixing labels to individual stationary process containers, as long as the alternative method identifies the containers to which it is applicable and conveys the information required by paragraph

(f)(5) to be on a label. The written materials shall be readily accessible to the employees in their work area throughout each work shift.

(f)(7) The employer is not required to label portable containers into which hazardous chemicals are transferred from labelled containers, and which are intended only for the immediate use of the employee who performs the transfer.

CCCR Canadian Consumer Label Review

Canadian Consumer Label Review (CCCR) is a service offered by organizations that have the expertise with the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, 2001 (issued under the Hazardous Products Act). To ensure the products are correctly classified and eliminate the probability of product recalls due to improper classification, packaging and/or labeling.

Consulting services provide companies with expert interpretations, guidance and compliance with the CCCR guidelines. It is important to have someone with expert knowledge to classify the product because the person who determines the product classification is responsible for the CCCR. Therefore, if the CCCR is not outsourced to a company of experts and the importer, distributor or manufacture of a consumer product decides to complete the CCCR in-house they will be obligated to assess and correctly classify, package and label the product (as per Parts 1 to 5 of the CCCR-2001). It is not the retailer’s responsibility to ensure the product is packaged correctly. The person responsible for classifying the product is also responsible for providing the necessary information to a government inspector should there be a packaging concern or a product audit.

Typically, companies who pursuit CCCR label reviews save time, money and increase efficiency. Many current product labels do not meet standard regulations because the designers are unsure how to interpret the regulations or are not aware of the consumer chemicals and containers regulations. This oversight can be costly and embarrassing for companies who have are mandated by health Canada to recall their product due to unsuitable labeling.

REACH Compliance Consulting

The Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) is an European Union (EU) initiative to improve the protection of human health and the environment through better identification of the properties of chemical substances. The law came into effect on June 1, 2007, simplifying the 40 existing pieces of legislation into a single system of regulations for all chemicals. It provides information regarding chemicals acute and long-term effects.

To continue manufacturing/importing substances on the EU market after December 1, 2008, manufacturers and importers must’ve pre-registered these chemicals between June 1 and December 1, 2008. The Pre-registration data includes your identity and contact information, the estimated imported tonnage and expected registration deadline, and the EINECS and CAS numbers for each substance. This data will be used by the European Chemicals Agency (ACHA) to allow companies registering the same substances to share the relevant data. The most significant impact of REACH is to mandate chemical manufacturers and importers to determine the hazardous properties through testing of thousands of older industrial chemicals.

REACH consulting service provides your company with expert interpretation, guidance, and compliance with respect to the REACH guidelines. Reach compliance consulting services consist of: hazard and risk assessment, fulfilling data requirements, and handling administrative responsibilities associated with the REACH regulation. REACH has five main components: pre-registration, registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction.

GHS Compliance

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is a UN initiative for global hazard communication. GHS introduces an improved system of classification for chemical substances by type of hazard, and harmonized hazard communication elements including phrases and symbols.

Under the Globally Harmonized System, an MSDS is now referred to as an SDS (Safety Data Sheet). The MSDS or SDS provides employers and workers with information about the hazards of the chemical, the safety precautions that should be taken and first aid measures if needed. The MSDS or SDS can also be a resource for those involved in the transport of dangerous goods, emergency responders, poison centers and sometimes consumers.

A GHS SDS will always have 16 sections on it, unlike some other MSDSs currently used in practice. One main difference between the GHS requirements, in terms of the headings and sections compared to the international industry recommendations, is that the order of sections 2 and 3 have been reversed. The sixteen sections are as follows: identification, hazard(s) identification, composition/ information on ingredients, first-aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, handling and storage, exposure control/ personal protection, physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, ecological information, disposal considerations, transport information, regulatory information and other information.

The GHS requires the recommended use of the chemical and any restrictions on its use that is not currently required under all regulations. Also, the classification labels under GHS regulations will need to be reproduced, either in text or graphically. In addition, the Safety Data Sheets will be required to list the CAS number of the hazardous components in the substance, as well as any hazardous impurities. GHS also requires accidental release measures for containment and cleanup as well as complete toxicological and ecological information regarding the substance.

What Is Technical Translation And Why Is It Required?

Technical translation is a specialized type of translation direction at technological subject areas or texts which deal with the practical application of scientific and technological information. In terms of regulatory compliance, technical translation could be applied to chemical regulatory documents, marketing materials, employee handbooks, corporate documents and even websites. Technical translations are often useful and needed in many situations. For example, all documents in Canadian workplaces regarding substances must be available in both English and French. If you plan on having your product used in other countries, the official language of that country should be available on your documents.

Using a canned machine translation program is not an appropriate was to translate documents such as these. Errors in translating labels, instruction, or safety precautions could lead to regulatory and/or product/civil liability. In addition, an incorrect translation could be misinterpreted, leading to a possible misuse of the product and physical or property damage.

It is therefore recommended that manufacturers and suppliers use an outsourced regulatory company to assist them in the technical translation of such documents. Relying on an expert to complete the translation guarantees an accurate interpretation of the document in all languages. In addition, outsourcing your technical translation documentation can give your company increased efficiency in other regulatory areas, as well as saving time and money.

What is considered a hazardous ingredient under the CCCR regulations?

When reviewing a consumer product under the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations (CCCR) you must determine whether the individual chemical components are hazardous. This will assist in classifying the overall product’s hazards.

A "hazardous ingredient" under the CCCR, 2001 can be (a) a pure chemical product; (b) an ingredient present in a chemical product in a concentration of 1% or more and (i) is a chemical product, (ii) the supplier believes on reasonable grounds the chemical may be harmful to humans, (iii) the chemical has toxicological properties that are not known to the supplier, or (iv) derives from a reaction between precursor constituents and the hazards associated with the chemical product are not known to the supplier; or (c) a complex mixture present in a chemical product in a concentration of 1% or more and (i) is a chemical product, (ii) the supplier believes on reasonable grounds the chemical may be harmful to humans, or (iii) the chemical has toxicological properties that are not known to the supplier.

Once each chemical ingredient of the product is classified as hazardous or not, then the overall chemical product classification can be determined.

What is the difference between corrosion and irritation?

In terms of WHMIS classifications, a product which is corrosive would be classified as Class E and an irritant would be classified as D2B Skin/Eye Irritation.

The main distinction between corrosion and irritation is that irritation is more of a physiological effect whereas corrosion is more of a chemical reaction to the biological tissue. Although irritation and corrosion are distinguishable, in many cases, substances can display both characteristics depending on the duration and concentration of the exposure. The effects of irritation are typically considered to be reversible in comparison to corrosive substances.

The following are definitions from the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS):

- “Skin corrosion”: the production of irreversible damage to the skin; namely visible necrosis through the epidermis and into the dermis, following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours

- “Skin irritation”: the production of reversible damage to the skin following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours

Materials that fall within the criteria for corrosivity under WHMIS regulations will also meet the criteria for skin and eye irritation. Classifying these substances into both Class D2B and E would be unnecessary and may cause confusion to users and workers. Therefore, according to the Controlled Product Regulations, the majority of materials meeting the criteria for Class E need not be classified as Class D2B as well.

What are the differences between the flammable and combustible divisions under Class B?

In regards to WHMIS classifications, there are six classes (Compressed Gas, Flammable and Combustible Material, Oxidizing Material, Poisonous and Infectious Material, Corrosive Material and Dangerously Reactive Material). The Flammable and Combustible Material classification, or Class B, breaks down further into six subdivisions as follows:

Class B1 – Flammable Gases

Class B2 – Flammable Liquids

Class B3 – Combustible Liquids

Class B4 – Flammable Solids

Class B5 – Flammable Aerosols

Class B6 – Reactive Flammable Materials

The classification of a product under this section depends on the physical state of the product as well as the flammable properties of the chemical(s) contained in the product.

Flammable gases (B1) include any compressed gases that form a flammable mixture with air when in a concentration of 13 percent or a concentration range of 12 percent or greater by volume. Any product falling into the category of B1 must also be classified as a Class A Compressed Gas.

Flammable liquids (B2) are any liquids that have a flash point of less than 37.8°C (100°F).

Combustible liquids (B3) are any liquids that have a flash point of 37.8°C (100°F) or greater, but less than 93.3°C (200°F).

Flammable Solids (B4) include any solids that can be ignited readily, cause fires through friction or retained heat, and burn with a self-sustained flame.

Flammable Aerosols (B5) are any products in an aerosol container that give a flame projection at full valve opening, or a flashback at any degree of valve opening when tested.

Reactive Flammable Materials (B6) includes any substance that spontaneously combusts under normal conditions or in contact with air/water, or releases flammable gas if it contact with water.

What are the WHMIS ranges and what do they represent?

Because of the privacy of the specific chemical make-up of a product, companies do not want the exact concentration percentage of a chemical listed on the MSDS sheet. Therefore, WHMIS ranges are used to protect this classified information. The WHMIS range withholds the true concentration of the chemical in regards to the controlled product.

When the concentration of an ingredient is expressed as a percentage, the percentage should be an expression of the ratio of the weight of the ingredient/complex mixture to the weight of the controlled product, the volume of the ingredient/complex mixture to the volume of the controlled product, or the weight of the ingredient /complex mixture to the volume of the controlled product.

There are eleven WHMIS ranges that can be used to represent the concentration of a chemical in a controlled product.

1.1to 1 percent
0.5 to 1.5 percent
1 to 5 percent
3 to 7 percent
5 to 10 percent
7 to 13 percent
10 to 30 percent
15 to 40 percent
30 to 60 percent
40 to 70 percent
60 to 100 percent

Any of these ranges can be used to represent the true concentration of an ingredient/complex mixture in regards to the controlled product, given the true percentage falls into the range given.

What is a CAS number?

Chemicals are listed on MSDS sheets, along with their assigned CAS number.

CAS Registry numbers are assigned to each chemical by the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS), a division of the American Chemical Society. Each number is a unique identifier for a chemical substance and can apply to only one. These numbers have no underlying chemical significance but provide a systematic way to identify a chemical substance or molecular structure, regardless of the many names that may be applied to that ingredient.

Each CAS registry number has three parts separated by hyphens, up to a maximum of ten digits. The first part contains up to seven digits, the second contains two digits, and the third part is always one digit (the check digit). The numbers themselves are simply assigned in increasing order and have no inherent meaning.

CAS numbers can apply to many different substances including alloys, chemical elements and compounds, minerals, mixtures, polymers, salts and biological sequences.

The CAS registry numbers are taken from the CAS registry, which is a database of these chemicals. The database is updated every day, with roughly 12,000 new substances added daily.

CAS registry numbers are used on MSDS sheets because they are unique to each substance and are internationally recognized. These numbers are the standard when identifying a chemical because of the many different ways that a chemical can be labelled, including by their molecular formula, generic names, or trivial names. Having a CAS number ensures you are using the correct chemical information at all times.

Globally Harmonized System (GHS)

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (henceforth GHS) is a system intended to provide a uniform means of classifying chemicals by hazard type. The use of a standard format for communicating hazards posed by chemicals is meant to facilitate the production and trade of potentially hazardous substances. The regulations comprising the system were first published in 2003, and are currently in their third revision, published in July 2009.

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals or GHS as it is commonly referred to as, is an internationally agreed on classification of chemicals. The aim of the GHS is to provide universal regulations and guidelines for chemical labeling, documentation and use on a global platform.

The chemicals are classified by types of hazard. The purpose of the harmonized system is to ensure the toxicity and hazard information associated with these chemicals are available to promote the safe transportation, handling and use of these chemicals. The harmonized system also increases environmental safety as well as promoting the protection of human health.

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is a new system that classifies chemicals by their types of hazard. The GHS introduces harmonized hazard communication elements which includes labels and safety data sheets.

To ensure the protection of human health and the environment during the transportation and use of these chemicals, the GHS was developed to display the information on physical hazards and toxicity from chemicals on dangerous products. It also provides a basis for the harmonization of rules and regulations on chemicals at a national, regional and worldwide level. This system is a key factor that facilitates trade between organizations. The GHS’ primary audiences include the government, regional institutions and international organizations. Not to mention that it also contains sufficient context and guidance for those in the industry who are willing to implement this unique system on their products.

GHS – A UN Initiative towards Global Safety Standards

GHS or Globally Harmonized System is the first global initiative under the United Nations towards bringing some sense into the quagmire of hazardous chemicals that include high explosives and initiators, pyrotechnics and flammables, corrosive fluids and other dangerous substances. The new system rationalizes the manner in which these dangerous chemicals are classified on the basis of the types of hazards that these are associated with and labeled in a uniform manner that can be easily understood and implemented globally. The United Nations Economic and Social Council endorsed the system in July 2003.

GHS is the manner by which the world is finally going to look at a hazardous chemical and associate it with the hazards that can be expected from such a chemical. Personnel who are dealing with these chemicals would know how to handle any untoward incident or accident involving the chemical as well as the associated protective measures that need to be taken. The method of labeling that’s to be adopted could be an SDS or a Safety Data Sheet. The dealing companies would need the services of a consultant. The new system is however neither a regulation nor is it a standard. It is not legally binding and there is no rigid date laid down for its implementation. By rationalizing the system of classifying hazardous chemicals and transferring the knowledge to all personnel handling such chemicals it’s hoped that there will be an all round improvement in global safety standards. Owing to improved safety standards there’s bound to be improved cost efficiency and productivity.

Ensuring Global Safety with GHS

Over a period of time, the need was felt to rationalize all hazardous chemicals globally in a coordinated manner. This concept was introduced by the United Nations as Globally Harmonized System or GHS. In July 2003, the United Nations Economic and Social Council, subsequently, endorsed the concept. The system that’s supposed to ultimately improve global safety classifies the various chemicals that are hazardous on the basis of the various types of hazards that are associated.

Before the new concept was introduced each country had its own method of categorizing hazardous chemicals. There was no common method of labeling or symbolizing of these chemicals. Furthermore, it was not possible for individual countries to appreciate the various hazard symbols in respect of the chemicals being produced and packaged by another country. This obviously implied that there was no commonality of knowledge related to handling of explosives, inflammable or corrosive substances. Any spillage, fire or explosion could not be handled safely in such conditions. The new concept is to change all this and usher in a common platform.

The intention of introducing GHS was, therefore, to establish a commonality globally. With this commonality, it’s hoped that there would be an improvement in safety and thus health standards on a global plane. This system would require to be conveyed to the man on the shop floor who would be fully conversant with the hazards concerning a certain chemical. This system is not legally binding, nor is it a regulation or a standard. Progressively member countries are expected to adopt it in global interest.

GHS and Global Health

Globally Harmonized System or GHS was introduced by the United Nations in order to have a rationalized system for all hazardous chemicals. In July 2003, the United Nations Economic and Social Council endorsed the concept. This system classifies each hazardous chemical with relation to the type of hazard that the chemical may include. This rationalizing was required because of the confusion that prevailed till then. Each country producing or dealing with these chemicals had its own methodology of classification, the use of symbols and the hazard types. There being no common standard it was impossible to identify any hazardous chemical with either the likely hazard that it could cause or how the hazard was to be tackled. This was a dangerous situation since with the proliferation in hazardous chemicals; accidents and incidents could cause serious health issues to the population.

It is hoped that GHS will be the ultimate tool with which global health and safety standards will be improved. The methodology is to associate each hazardous chemical with the hazard that it can cause. The method to be used for labeling could be that of using Safety Data Sheet or SDS. Each manufacturer of these chemicals would require a GHS consultant. The new system is not legally binding nor is it a regulation or a standard. There is no deadline by which this system has to be put in place. However, there is an international agreement and all countries are aware of the pressing need of introducing the new system.

Simplifying the Concept of CCCR

The concept of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling (GHS) of hazardous chemicals was taken up at the behest of the United Nations. This was done to ensure that each chemical of hazardous nature was properly documented and labeled in order to ensure safety to health and the environment. The MSDS or Material Safety Data Sheets was to be one of the methods of such labeling. The option of selecting the method of labeling was left to the member country. Regulatory bodies were appointed for the MSDS as well as competent agencies. Thereafter, the CCCR or Canadian Consumer Label Review was drawn up in Canada for all hazardous chemicals sold in retail in Canada.

CCCR 2001 stipulates that all chemical substances of hazardous nature marketed in Canada will be covered by this regulation with the exclusion of those products that are already covered by another Canadian legislation. These chemicals could be an explosive, a medicine, a nuclear substance, a cosmetic or a substance use for pest control. The CCCR requires that proper labeling be adopted for each of these designated chemical substances. The identity of the product was to be spelt out in both English and French. The net quantity, the name and address of the dealer as well as the complete postal address of the place where the main business was located were all required to be mentioned on the label. Also to be mentioned were the hazard symbol and the first aid directions, the degree of toxicity and inflammability.

When do I need an International SDS?

If a chemical manufacturer or supplier is interesting in expanding their market to sell products internationally they will also need to ensure they follow international regulations, specifically the SDS. If the company currently has Canadian or U.S. compliant MSDSs for their products they will now need to convert the WHMIS and OSHA requirements to the regulations of the new countries of sale. In most cases the Canadian/U.S. MSDS will not be compliant in international countries.

Many countries and jurisdictions have their own set of chemical regulations which pertain only to that specific area. The EU is one example. Currently the EU has adopted GHS as well as their own set of regulations which is known as the CLP. Many European countries are included in the EU as well as several others which have chosen to adopt the EU GHS CLP. Several of these countries include the UK, Germany, Austria and Spain, just to name a few.

Many countries around the world have also enforced their own regulations which concern only that specific country/jurisdiction. Examples of these areas would include New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Canada and the U.S. of course are also included in this list. Fortunately these two countries can be combined on a single MSDS if companies prefer as the regulations are quite similar at the moment.

An Introduction to CCCR

CCCR or Consumer Chemicals and Container Regulations, 2001 is a set of regulations that falls under Canada’s Hazardous Products Act. It contains compliance guidelines related to handling of chemicals and substances that are sold in the retail market directly to the consumers. The Canadian Consumer Label Review keeps track of these substances that fall under this Act. It is also important to notice that the legislation does not cover substances falling under any other legislation like drugs, explosive, nuclear substances and the like.

What does CCCR stipulate?

The purpose of CCCR is to provide credible and reliable information about the substances to the persons handling and using them. The legislation makes it mandatory to display all relevant information about the substance on its label. The label of the product should contain:

• The name, scientific and otherwise, of the product in legitimate English and French
• The quantity contained within the package should be clearly displayed. In case of chemicals even minute deviations could be catastrophic, so great care should be taken for measuring and displaying
• The label should also contain relevant information about the supplier of the product and the place of the origin
• Most importantly, the label should contain comprehensive hazard information. This includes universally recognized hazard symbols, warnings, instructions for handling as well as first aid instructions to be followed in case of any untoward incident

The legislation also has provision for classifying the substances on the basis of their hazard potential. The size of the information depends on the size of the packaging and the relative importance of the information.

Relevance of MSDS Today

MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheets that concern all chemicals that are hazardous. Though the principle of documentation dates back 4000 years to the time of the Ancient Egyptians when their physicians would document all details pertaining to the prescriptions, the recent global effort is for the cause of bringing about an improvement in both health and safety.

The global requirement is that in the MSDS complete data is required to be filled in by the manufacturer of the hazardous chemicals. These data sheets are to be prominently displayed at the place of production, storage and testing or destruction of these chemicals. These sheets need to be carried during transportation as well. The various particulars that would require filling include the full particulars of the manufacturer including his complete address and contact numbers. The details should include the list of ingredients comprised in the hazardous chemical and their physical properties such as their nature of reactivity with other substances, the vapor pressure, the boiling point and odor. The fire hazards as well as the likely hazard of explosion or spontaneous combustion are all to be clearly mentioned. The instructions for handling spillage and fire or explosion are to be laid down. The need for various types of protective gear are to be annotated along with clear specifications on the associated hazard to health, the first aid measures and the manner in which these chemicals are to be disposed or demolished.

MSDS is not only relevant today, but also absolutely essential from the health and safety aspects.

An Introduction to MSDS

MSDS or Material Safety Data Sheet is a document that contains all the relevant information regarding a hazardous substance and its chemical and physical properties. Along with it, the data sheet also contains information regarding the handling and keeping of product that can be dangerous for the people handling and using them. In fact, many countries have made the upkeep of MSDS a legal obligation, so that manufacturers and importers may never overlook this important document.

Benefits of Material Safety Data Sheet

It is important to understand that Material Safety Data Sheet is just not a document that you maintain to keep the authorities happy. It can, at times, prove to be the most crucial life-saving instrument. Let us start with the basics. Most of the hazardous substances are volatile when they come in contact with external environmental factors. Now, this can prove really dangerous for people who remain in close contact with such substances. The data sheet acts as a guiding document, outlining the best way to contain such substances and how to use them with utmost security.

Even, in case of some unexpected incident the data sheet can prove to be extremely handy. MSDS contains instructions regarding unexpected spillage, release or contact with body parts. This helps in limiting damage to man and property in an accident.

The biggest advantage of Material Safety Data Sheet is the sense of security and confidence that it instills in the workforce. The workers have thorough knowledge and information regarding the use of substance. So, they approach their tasks more efficiently and confidently.

Globally Harmonized System – for non-hazardous handling of Chemicals

Chemicals – from manufacture to haulage to usage, can be a genuine hazard to a person’s well-being, as well as to the environment as a whole. There is a large-scale worldwide trade in chemicals and in order to deal with this threat common and consistent approach has been developed under the aegis of Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. GHS is meant to ensure there is no detrimental handling, transportation and dumping of chemicals. It is an internationally harmonized and accepted approach to categorization and labeling of chemicals.

GHS deals with categorization of chemicals by kinds of vulnerability and recommends coordinated “hazard communication elements”, such as safety data sheets and labels. It endeavors at making certain that facts on “physical hazards and toxicity from chemicals” be accessible to improve the protection of human health and the environment during the handling, transport and use of these chemicals. The GHS also provides a basis for harmonization, an important factor also for trade facilitation.

What are the requirements of an EU label?

All chemical substances which are imported into the European Union (EU) or manufactured there must have an EU label review. A substance or mixture classified as hazardous and contained in a packaging will have an EU label including the following elements:

1.Name, Address, Telephone Number of the supplier(s)
2.The nominal quantity of the substance or mixture in the package made available to the general public, unless this quantity is specified elsewhere on the package
3.Product identifiers:

I.the trade name or the designation of the mixture;
II.the identity of all substances in the mixture that contribute to the classification of the mixture as regards acute toxicity, skin corrosion or serious eye damage, germ cell mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, respiratory or skin sensitisation, specific target organ toxicity or aspiration hazard.
4.EU SDS label will be written in the official language(s) of the Member State(s) where the substance or mixture is placed on the market, unless the Member State(s) concerned provide(s) otherwise
5.Suppliers may use more languages on their labels than those required by the Member States, provided that the same details appear in all languages used

The EU label requirement leads to the provision of multiple chemical names, a maximum of four chemical names shall suffice, unless more than four names are needed to reflect the nature and the severity of the hazards. The chemical names selected shall identify the substances primarily responsible for the major health hazards which have given rise to the classification and the choice of the corresponding hazard statements and other means of identification such as:

1.Hazard pictograms
2.Signal words
3.Hazard statements
4.Precautionary statements, and
5.Supplemental information

What is a NAFTA Material Safety Data Sheet ?

NAFTA or North American Free Trade Agreement MSDS is an authored fully compliant document in the North American countries which includes Canada, United States and Mexico under the following regulations:

1.Canadian standard: Hazardous Products Act & Controlled Products Regulations
2.US standard: 29 CFR 1910.1200 - Occupational Safety & Health Administration
3.Mexican standard: NOM-018-STPS-2000
4.North America: ANSI.Z400.1-2004

NAFTA is basically an agreement signed by the governments of the United States, Canada and Mexico creating a trilateral trade bloc in North America. The agreement came into force on January 1, 1994. It superseded the Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement between the U.S. and Canada regulations under witch Material Safety Data Sheets are authored and are accepted throughout the whole North American continent today.

The goal of NAFTA was to eliminate barriers of trade and investment between the USA, Canada and Mexico. The implementation of NAFTA on January 1, 1994, brought the immediate elimination of tariffs on United States imports from Mexico and vice versa. Most US-Canada trade was already duty free. However, this agreement created one of the world’s largest free trade zones while laying the foundations for strong economic growth and rising prosperity for Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

What are the GHS Regulation Compliance Solutions?

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is a UN initiative for global hazard communication. GHS introduces an improved system of classification for chemical substances by type of hazard, and harmonized hazard communication elements including phrases and symbols.
The GHS Regulation Compliance provides the following services:

1.Classification of substances to meet the new requirements set out by the newly adopted Globally Harmonized System
2.Safety Data Sheet (SDS) updates to verify that all requirements are met and that classification of substances have been properly assigned
3.Label formulation for compliance with GHS and correspondence with safety data sheets

The GHS standard was established on the building block basis; in this case a building block according to the GHS regulation is a hazard class. Within a hazard class, each hazard category can be seen as a building block: for a given hazard class competent authorities have the possibility not to apply all categories. GHS Regulation gives a government the freedom to determine which of the building blocks will be applied in different part of their system. However, where a system covers something that is in the GHS, and implements the GHS Regulation, that coverage should be consistent.

Common Issues of a WHMIS MSDS:

I believe my MSDS is WHMIS compliant but how do I tell for sure?

There are multiple requirements stated under the Hazardous Product Act (HPA) and Controlled Products Regulations (CPR) that must be present on a WHMIS MSDS to make sure it is compliant with Canadian law. However there are a few specific sections to keep your eye out for when determining whether a document is WHMIS compliant:

Hazardous data – The amount of each ingredient required to be disclosed by WHMIS must be stated on the MSDS using a prescribed concentration range.

Physical data – WHMIS requires a vast amount of data to be specified in this section of the WHMIS MSDS. The list particularly includes; physical state, odour and appearance, odour threshold, specific gravity, vapour pressure, vapour density, evaporation rate, boiling point, freezing point, pH, and coefficient of water/oil distribution. If there is no data available for any of these measurements then it must be declared as “not available” on the WHMIS MSDS.

Toxicological data – WHMIS requires each component of the chemical product to state the individual LD50 and LC50 for the disclosed components present in the mixture.

Transportation data – A WHMIS MSDS must specify the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) requirements of the chemical product.

When does a MSDS translation take place?

There are many different countries, languages and jurisdictions a MSDS can be translated into. In North America there are three different jurisdictions, which follow the three countries of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. A Canadian MSDS must be WHMIS compliant and needs to be presented in both English and French. In the United States a MSDS must be OSHA compliant, or alternatively ANSI compliant. The MSDS must be written in English within the U.S. In Mexico a MSDS needs to follow the Mexican NOM-018-STPS-2000 laws and be written in Spanish. Across in Europe, MSDSs are currently written using the CLP regulations, which is an adopted version of GHS. New Zealand has also adopted and is currently using GHS, while Australia is using NOHSC:2012(1994) as the MSDS regulations. There are also many other areas using different chemical regulations such as China, Japan, and other European countries all of which require different formats, statements and languages.

All of these areas around the world have such varying levels of chemical regulations that they almost never can be combined into a single compliant document. If you find a reliable MSDS translation and regulatory compliance specialist however, they will ensure that your company follows the best procedures to obtain compliant documents while keeping a cost efficient budget.