Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) will be called Safety Data Sheets (SDS) under OSHA's proposal to modify the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to align it with the provisions of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).
If adopted, the Safety Data Sheets (formerly MSDSs) will now have a specified 16-section format. In addition, chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to provide a label that includes a harmonized signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category. The use of pictograms will enable workers, employers, and chemical users worldwide to understand the most basic chemical information without language barriers.
OSHA's proposal to adopt the GHS will not change the framework and scope of the current HCS but will help ensure improved quality and more consistency in the classification and labeling of all chemicals. This will enhance worker comprehension, resulting in appropriate handling and use of chemicals. The primary benefit of the GHS is to increase the quality and consistency of information provided to all chemical users by adopting a standardized approach to hazard classification, labels and safety data.
OSHA is proposing a phase-in period of three years. This would give chemical manufacturers and importers time to revise their existing MSDSs to meet the new format and employers to train workers to become familiar with the new warning symbols and the revised safety data sheet format.
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