What are some examples of GHS for Employee Training

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) ensures that the use of chemicals is regulated in the workplace. By providing guidance on the safe handling, storage, and use of potentially dangerous materials, employee safety is improved. In order to carry out effective employee training on GHS, we discuss key topics to cover and some key examples to use within each.

Hazard classification

By classifying the chemicals into different categories, the risk of hazard to human health is communicated to improve safety measures. These categories are split by health hazards, physical hazards, and environmental hazards; helping employees differentiate the necessary measures for safe handling.

Pictograms

Utilizing easily recognizable symbols conveys key information to workers in a standardized manner. Some common examples to use are the flame pictogram which shows that a substance is flammable and the skull and crossbones pictogram which shows that a substance is toxic. By familiarizing employees with some of the most commonly used pictograms early on, they can become more aware of the hazards around them in the workplace.

PPE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) protects employees from harm in the workplace and the needs will differ based on the nature of the role. Selecting the right PPE for employees will be based on the chemicals used and the associated hazards, but common examples of PPE in the workplace are goggles, gloves, masks, aprons, and hearing protection.

Labeling

A beneficial practice is to show examples of existing containers from the workplace during training sessions, using these to teach employees how the labels should be interpreted. The GHS requires chemical products to be labeled with specific information which discloses the potential dangers associated, including product identifiers, hazard statements, and precaution guidelines.

Exposure procedures

If an accident occurs which causes exposure to a chemical, it is important that employees know how to respond in a timely manner. Showing examples of common first-aid practices such as eye washing and administering CPR will help employees retain the information and know what action is needed for different chemical-related injuries.

SDS

Safety data sheets (SDS) provide in-depth detail about the properties of each chemical used within the business and the handling procedures, hazards, first aid measures, and emergency contact details associated with each. The training should incorporate some examples of SDS and guide employees on where to locate the information.

Storage

Run through the different storage areas in the workplace and provide examples of how each chemical should be organized based on its hazard classification. By ensuring that all employees are correctly storing and separating chemicals, safety regulation is met and potentially dangerous accidents are prevented.

Exposure limits

The GHS provides guidance on permissible exposure limits (PELs) and recommended exposure limits (RELs) for commonly used chemicals, being important to acknowledge to prevent overexposure and potential health risks. Training should educate employees on the importance of this and the exposure limits of the chemicals they commonly use, helping them understand how to safely work within the limits.