Search

Dispatches from DGAC 2015—GHS “Building Blocks”

Posted on 11/11/2015 by Roger Marks

From November 2–4, the Dangerous Goods Advisory Council hosted its 37th Annual Conference and Dangerous Goods Transportation Expo in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Every year, this conference brings together hazardous materials shippers, carriers, and regulatory experts to network and discuss the latest developments in dangerous goods ground, air, rail, and vessel shipping.

Training coordinator Jared Blasdell represented Lion Technology at the conference, providing live updates via Twitter throughout the week. To keep up with the latest regulatory issues affecting hazmat shippers, hazardous waste facilities, manufacturers, and environmental professionals, follow Lion on Twitter here.

The “Building Blocks” of GHS Chemical Classification

Among the biggest issues discussed during Conference sessions was the Globally Harmonized System of Classifying and Labeling Chemicals, or GHS. DGAC presenter and GHS expert Paul Brigandi provided insight on the “building blocks” of GHS and the challenges of harmonizing hazard classification criteria between nations. Ideally, Brigandi noted, international harmonization will allow scientists—no matter where they are—to analyze the same chemical properties and test data to arrive at the same hazard classification.

That said, differences in the way nations have implemented the GHS chemical classification criteria may lead to not-so-harmonized results. For example, the US has adopted a lesser threshold for regulating some hazards than the EU has, which could result in confusion about which GHS pictograms shippers should use for international chemical shipments.



GHS Chemical Classification Challenges

Expanding on Mr. Brigandi’s “building blocks” discussion, industry expert and hazmat columnist Gene Sanders led attendees through a mock hazard classification exercise using three fictional materials. The exercise clearly showed the difficulties of classifying hazards and determining which pictograms to affix on a package—or whether a pictogram should be used at all.

Sanders also illustrated the difficulty of completing Section 14 of the newly formatted 16-section GHS Safety Data Sheet (SDS), using a flammable/combustible material as an example.

Later in the conference, Paul Brigandi returned to the podium to discuss hazards newly identified under GHS—desensitized explosives and pyrophoric gases. These newly identified hazards will require training for employees exposed to these types of materials before June 1, 2016. Brigandi also discussed the ongoing challenges of GHS labels for small containers and packages.

Also by June 1, 2016, employers must update their workplace hazard labeling system to bring it into compliance with the GHS requirements.

GHS for Hazmat Shippers Webinar

For hazmat shippers, GHS labeling standards affect more than workplace safety. Shippers already affix US DOT-required hazmat labels to containers and packages. Adding new GHS labels to the mix, along with unique hazard classification criteria and pictograms, is causing concern. Cut through the confusion with a live, instructor-led webinar designed specifically to help hazmat shippers navigate the shift to GHS hazard communication.

The GHS for Hazmat Shippers Webinar will help you ensure your shipments meet OSHA and US DOT requirements and keep your hazmat packages moving safely and on time.

More DGAC Dispatches on the Way!

Next up—we break down an update on US hazmat regulations from the DOT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Check back at Lion News for more, or follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to make sure you’re among the first to know when we post new updates.

Tags: GHS, hazmat shipping

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Very well structured, comprehensive, and comparable to live training seminars I've participated in previously. I will recommend the online course to other colleagues with training requirement needs.

Neil Luciano

EHS Manager

Excellent class, super instructor, very easy to follow. No rushing through material. Would like to take his class again.

Lawrence Patterson

EH&S Facility Maintenance & Security Manager

Excellent. I learned more in two days with Lion than at a 5-day program I took with another provider.

Francisco Gallardo

HES Technician

Lion courses always set the bar for content, reference, and practical application. Membership and access to the experts is an added bonus.

John Brown, CSP

Director of Safety & Env Affairs

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

I chose Lion's online webinar because it is simple, effective, and easily accessible.

Jeremy Bost

Environmental Health & Safety Technician

The instructor made the class very enjoyable and catered to the needs of our group.

Sarah Baker

Planner

The instructor was very knowledgeable and provided pertinent information above and beyond the questions that were asked.

Johnny Barton

Logistics Coordinator

The instructor had knowledge of regulations and understanding of real-world situations. The presentation style was engaging and fostered a positive atmosphere for information sharing.

Linda Arlen

Safety & Environmental Compliance Officer

The exercises in the DOT hazardous materials management course are especially helpful in evaluating your understanding of course information.

Morgan Bliss

Principal Industrial Hygienist

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

In-flight hazmat incidents can be disastrous. This guide gives 5 tips for first-time air shippers to consider before offering dangerous goods for transportation on passenger or cargo aircraft.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.