OSHA’s June 1 deadline for GHS-compliant SDSs is just a few weeks out, and businesses are focused on completing the MSDS to SDS conversions as soon as possible. With all this focus on completing the conversions before the deadline, sometimes we lose sight of the bigger picture: the benefits of becoming GHS compliant.
As we all know, a standardized system for communicating hazardous materials inherently protects the workers who are handling those hazardous materials. But the reach of GHS extends even further than the protection of individual workers. GHS compliance benefits companies as a whole.
Providing a safe working environment is a necessary requirement for employers. By investing in GHS compliance, companies are showing their commitment to their most valuable resource while simultaneously improving employer/employee relations. In making the investment, companies are setting themselves up to cut costs due to fewer accidents and injuries. As a standardized system, GHS compliance will also show an increase in efficiency on an international scale.
Governments all over the world are able to benefit from GHS. By reducing the number of chemical accidents and incidents, health care costs can also be reduced. Implementing a globally recognized system of chemical classifications, national governments will not have to create and maintain their own system, allowing more resources and manpower to more pressing matters.
It’s important to get your MSDSs converted, but don’t forget to take a step back and remember why.
