As of 1st January 2017, the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) takes full effect. Click here to view a short video by Safe Work Australia on what you need to know to be
GHS ready:
http://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/health-and-safety/safety-topics-a-z/hazardous-chemical/chemical-labelling
To give you a bit of background Australia adopted the GHS under work health and safety laws on 1st January 2012 with a five-year transition period with the expectation of full implementation and compliance by 1st
January 2017. GHS is a single internationally agreed system of chemical classification and hazard communication through labelling and Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Prior to GHS different countries had different systems
for classification and labelling of chemical products & these different systems made regulation of this hazard difficult & imposed an additional burden on business that impacted on safe use at the workplace level.
Manufacturers and importers of chemicals were able to continue to use the existing NOHSC labelling system for workplace hazardous substances and dangerous goods up until 31st December 2016, so as of now suppliers
and consumers alike should only accept stock with labels that are GHS compliant. Click below to view a link to GHS Compliant Code of Practice for Labelling of Workplace Hazardous
Chemicals:
http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/swa/about/publications/pages/labelling-hazardous-chemicals-cop
Particularly those already accredited to a Safety Standard should be aware that the new GHS rules will affect your accreditation status if not adequately managed. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require
any assistance or would like to discuss this further.
If you require any assistance on this topic contact us here.