Hazardous chemicals move through global markets, and so they must be labeled in a way that is universally understood in order to maximize safe handling and storage. A system that accomplishes this — the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) — recently was modified.

U.S. employers had until June 1, 2016 to update their workplace labeling and hazard communication programs, in addition to providing training for newly identified hazards.

The modified standard determines chemical classifications according to the hazards they present, and companies worldwide now can follow a single format to communicate the hazards, using pictograms, signal words, hazard statements and precautionary statements for each of the hazard classes associated with a product’s chemical descriptions.

The accompanying fact sheet created by SolvChem Custom Packaging Division displays each hazard pictogram, and information about the related hazard classes.