The deadline for the transition to GHS 7 is fast approaching. From the 1st of January 2023, all businesses carrying hazardous chemicals (as recognised by the UN) must utilise the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals Revision 7 to classify chemicals, as well as prepare chemical labels and safety data sheets. This post explains the changes this will bring as well as some ways in which you can learn more about GHS 7.
NOTE: Western Australia is the only state or territory that won’t change over on this date, with WA transitioning to GHS 7 on 31st March 2023.
What is GHS 7
It’s crucial for the safety of people, property, the environment and the community that chemical classifications and labelling are accurate and understood. When dealing with hazardous chemicals in the workplace, identification and awareness of hazards can assist in bolstering the health and safety of your site.
GHS 7 is the 7th revised edition of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.
This internationally consistent system of classification was first developed in 2017 by the UN to ensure an internationally consistent standard for hazardous chemical classification and labelling. The GHS is used by Australia as well as US, Canada, China, New Zealand, European Union, Japan and other countries.
Time is running out for Australian workplaces to transition to the 7th revised edition of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.
The update to the GHS means that Australian businesses can work with the same system that our key trade partners do. It also helps to improve safety and awareness when dealing with chemical management.
What Has Changed?
With the 2-year transition to GHS 7 ending on 31 December 2022, manufacturers and importers have been given adequate time to implement the updated system.
There are some key changes to note when Australia transitions to GHS 7.
These include updates to some hazardous chemical classifications and precautionary statements for:
- Aerosols
- Flammable gases
- Pyrophoric gases
- Chemically unstable gases
- Desensitised explosives
- Eye irritation
There are also changes to be noted with precautionary statements being updated, so they’re easier to comprehend.
Refer to the GHS 7 for full details on the changes.
The change from GHS 3 to GHS 7 mainly affects manufacturers and importers of hazardous chemicals, however, if you only supply or use hazardous chemicals, the chemicals that you order must be labelled in accordance with GHS 7.
What Can I Do To Get Ready For GHS 7?
Changing from GHS 3 to GHS 7 starts with understanding how the changes will affect how you identify your chemicals — and their hazards.
REMEMBER: Only GHS 7 can be used to classify and label chemicals in Australia from 1st January 2023. This extends to manufacturers, importers, suppliers and users of hazardous chemicals.
There are different things that users of hazardous chemicals can do to get ready for GHS 7.
These may include taking simple steps including learning more about:
- GHS label elements
- Hazard symbols
- Signal words
- Precautionary statements
- Product identifiers
- Manufacturing information
- The changes that GHS 7 brings to labelling and SDS
In addition to general education about the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, organisations can also prepare for the 7th revised edition by:
- Ensuring all primary and secondary chemical containers are properly labelled
- Requesting updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS) that include the appropriate GHS 7 information
- Educating and training staff on how to read the labels and Safety Data Sheets
- Checking new chemical shipments (and SDS) from 1st January adhere to the new GHS 7 rules
Where Can I Find More Info About This?
You can better prepare your workplace and your staff for the changes by accessing the GHS 7 on the UNECE website and accessing Safe Work Australia’s site to learn more about the transition. You may also get in touch the WHS regulator in your state or territory.
For information about hazardous chemicals and safer storage, handling and identification practices, you can purchase our latest eBook online. The Ultimate DG Storage Handbook covers a broad range of topics and can be easily applied to any workplace that carries hazardous chemicals or dangerous goods.
