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.