How GHS Can Help Businesses Protect the Environment

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The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is a standard managed by the United Nations which is internationally agreed upon, replacing old labeling schemes which were used around the world when classifying hazardous materials. The purpose of having GHS Safety Discussions is to keep employees safe in the workplace when handling hazardous substances, creating a worldwide standard that states the practices businesses should follow to mitigate risks and align with health and safety standards.

As well as the safety of employees, GHS provides guidance on the environmental impacts of chemicals, enforcing practices that prevent harm to ecosystems. Here is how GHS is helping businesses do their bit to protect the environment and maintain sustainable practices:

Carry out risks assessments

GHS prompts businesses to perform regular assessments of their environmental impact as a part of their risk assessments. This analysis allows them to identify any risks to the environment that are created from chemical usage and the potential long-term effects these could have on ecosystems. The results of this assessment will allow a business to implement safety products that control the risk of environmental contamination and reconsider factors that may have a negative environmental impact going forward.

Align with environmental regulations

By aligning with GHS, a business must consider their environmental impact and not exceed set standards, taking responsibility for its actions and making positive changes. Failure to comply with industry regulations can result in penalties so businesses are inclined to follow guidance and align with regulations, having a big impact on the overall picture.

Improve health and safety

Where it is possible to switch to safer chemicals, GHS encourages making changes that not only help the environment but create a safer workplace. The substitution of hazardous substances with environmentally friendly options is widely encouraged, in turn adopting more sustainable practices through modern alternatives.

Educate employees on the impact

Through GHS training programs, employees can be educated about the potential environmental impacts of the chemicals they are using, giving them tips on handling and dealing with any accidental spillages. By teaching employees about the potential impact their actions could be having on the environment, the increased awareness is likely to change the way people carry out their role and provide them with a new sense of responsibility.

Create worldwide standards

Since GHS is a global framework, it facilitates the exchange of information between countries, creating a worldwide understanding of environmental risks from chemical management. By working alongside other nations, the consistent practices have a significant impact on the ecosystems and ensure the shipping of chemicals across borders is done in a standardized manner, minimizing the chance of accidental releases or mass pollution.

Establish a classification system

By categorizing substances based on their environmental impact, businesses can have a better understanding of the potential harm the chemicals they use could be causing to the environment. GHS systems for hazard classification means there is a worldwide standard that identifies the environmental risks of different chemicals and how they should be managed.

Additional Resources

Related posts:

  1. Understanding GHS Pictograms
  2. The History of GHS
  3. What is GHS?
  4. GHS Hazard Classifications & Categories
  5. Six Steps to an Effective HazCom Program
  6. MSDS-to-SDS: The GHS Standard
  7. How to be GHS Compliant
  8. Helping you Understand GHS
  9. How to Read GHS Labels