A standardized system for labeling and classifying chemicals known as the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) has been developed. Two primary areas of change involve labeling elements and standardization of Safety Data Sheets (SDS), formally known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). This lesson provides updated information on the new labels that may appear on chemicals and on the new Safety Data Sheets (SDS) that may be received from chemical manufacturers.

The HCS was originally developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA®). The newly revised HCS focus is on the employees' right to understand the characteristics and hazards of chemicals in the workplace, whether it is a chemical industry or a school. Play the video below for a brief overview of HCS changes to labels and SDS.

Practice matching the pictograms to the appropriate descriptions in the activity below. Remember that pictograms are now included in chemical labels as well as SDS. 

There are several GHS training resources available to educators and staff. OSHA® has created a variety of publications such as reference cards about the changes to labels and SDS in both English and Spanish. The OSHA Quick Card™ provides detailed information on HCS pictograms and Hazards. Click the image below to access the files.

Additionally, Flinn Scientific, Inc. has developed resources as well as a safety training video that meets the safety training requirements as outlined by OSHA®.