If you work with agricultural chemicals or other potentially dangerous materials, including pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, diesel fuel and/or disinfectant products, you should understand the new label requirements and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) format.
As of June 1, all chemical manufacturers are required to use a new labeling and the SDS format established under Globally Harmonized System (GHS) criteria for classifying the health and physical hazards of the chemicals they produce.
By June 1, 2016, employers must update workplace labeling and hazard communication programs, providing ongoing employee training for newly identified physical or health hazards.
Here are some things you should know about the new labels and SDSs:
Hazard definitions are now more specific, ensuring consistency across the board. There are more specific criteria for classification of health and physical hazards and for the classification of mixtures.
Labels now need to include six standard elements for classified hazards: product identifier, manufacturer contact information, hazard pictograms, signal word (DANGER or WARNING), hazard statements and precautionary statements.The SDS format, formerly the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), is now the key Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). The information required on the SDS is essentially the same as the former MSDS; however, it will now be required to be organized in a specific 16-section format.
Ø Sections 1 – 8 of the SDS contain general information about the chemical identification, hazards, composition, safe handling practices and emergency control measures.
Ø Sections 9 – 16 contain other technical and scientific information, including the date of preparation or last revision.
Here are some basic tips to prevent chemical injury and exposure:
1. Guard against splashes, spills and skin contact when mixing, handling and applying chemicals. At a minimum, wear long pants, long sleeves (or coveralls) and enclosed shoes.
2. Wear additional protective equipment as recommended by the label. This may include chemical-resistant gloves, goggles and/or a face shield and an approved respirator.
3. Mix and prepare products in a well-ventilated area.
4. Use only the amount and concentration specified by the label.
5. Do not mix different products unless allowed by label directions.
6. Launder chemical-soiled clothing separately from other laundry, and triple rinse.
7. Avoid inhaling sprays, dust and vapors.
Here are some best practices for safe chemical storage:
1. Limit storage areas to the minimum needed to discourage storing unnecessary chemicals.
2. Store chemicals in a secure area. Keep them in locked, weatherproof areas located above ground to prevent moisture problems, like rusting and disintegration. Locate storage areas at a safe site that will not be subjected to flooding. Make sure the area is well lit with a sign indicating the area contains chemicals, and provide at least two emergency contact numbers. Keep storage areas dry and well ventilated, avoiding freezing and extreme high temperatures. Keep chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
3. Store chemicals in their original containers. Keep the containers tightly closed and clearly labeled. If labels become worn or damaged, re-label the container with its contents or discard the chemical. Never store chemicals in damaged containers, and never use food or beverage containers to store chemicals.
