The New Chemical Labels: A GHS Guide
The Problem
Chemical safety communication has historically been inconsistent, with varying labels and terminology creating confusion and increasing the risk of incidents. Workers may misinterpret or overlook critical hazards due to unclear labelling systems. The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) standardises chemical labels, providing a universal format that supports better understanding and safer workplaces. Today, we’ll explore how GHS labels work and how to use them effectively.
Identify the Hazards
- Confusion and Misinterpretation: Older labelling used inconsistent terms like “caution” or “beware,” leading to misunderstandings.
- Lack of Standardised Pictograms: Without consistent symbols, it was harder for workers to quickly recognise chemical hazards.
- Improper Handling: When hazards are not clearly identified, workers may mishandle substances, increasing the risk of exposure or accidents.
- Delayed Emergency Response: Missing or unclear manufacturer and hazard information can hinder effective emergency response.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
- Identifies the chemical and links it to the corresponding Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
- Example: Product name, batch number, or product code.
- “Danger” indicates a high-level hazard.
- “Warning” is used for less severe hazards.
- These words help prioritise attention and highlight risk severity.
- Clearly describe the nature of the hazard.
- Example: “Highly flammable liquid and vapour.”
- These statements are standardised under GHS for consistency.
- Provide instructions for safe handling, personal protective equipment (PPE), first aid, storage, and disposal.
- Example: “Keep container tightly closed. Wear protective gloves and eye protection.”
- Red, diamond-framed icons that quickly identify the type of hazard (e.g., flammable, corrosive, toxic).
- These are standardised to promote immediate visual recognition.
- Must include the name, address, and contact number of the manufacturer or importer.
- This information is required for reference and emergency response.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker once handled a flammable solvent without realising the hazard due to an outdated or unclear label. A nearby spark from equipment ignited the substance, resulting in a fire that caused injuries and property damage. Under the Globally Harmonised System (GHS), this chemical would have displayed a clear flame pictogram and an explicit hazard statement such as “Highly flammable liquid and vapour.” These visual cues and standardised warnings could have alerted the worker to the danger and prevented the incident.
Employee Responsibilities
Employer Responsibilities
- Ensure all chemicals on-site are GHS-labelled.
- Provide training on the GHS labelling system and safe chemical handling procedures.
- Keep Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) readily available for all hazardous substances.
- Replace old or non-compliant labels as soon as they are identified.
Discussion & Questions
- “What changes have you noticed with the new GHS labels?”
- “Which elements make hazards easier to understand?”
- “Are there any chemicals on-site that need updated labels?”
Commitment/Action Plan
Starting today, let’s commit to checking all chemical labels thoroughly before use. If a label is missing, outdated, or unclear, report it immediately and cross-reference it with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to ensure you fully understand the hazards and precautions. By applying the GHS system correctly in our daily tasks, we help create a safer, more informed worksite for everyone.
Wrap-Up
The GHS labelling system provides a universal language for chemical safety. By understanding and applying these labels correctly, we reduce confusion, ensure regulatory compliance, and significantly lower the risk of chemical-related incidents. Thank you for taking this seriously and doing your part to keep everyone safe.
Standards Overview
Under Canadian occupational health and safety regulations, Canada has adopted the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for labelling hazardous substances through the WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System).
- GHS-compliant labels must be present on all hazardous product containers in the workplace.
- Employers are required to provide training on label interpretation and safe handling, and ensure access to up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDSs).
- Labelling and SDS information must be consistent and maintained according to current regulations.
- This system is enforced by federal and provincial regulators, with guidance from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) to support workplace safety.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
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