Initially before global harmonized system was in place, different countries used to classify and label chemicals using their own different formulas, which was posing a danger to anyone who came across a foreign chemical. Knowing what you are handling and the risks that come with it, helps you take the necessary precautions and this is what the use of globally harmonized system safety data sheets bring into play. Improper disposing of chemicals causes severe effects on the environment, but with proper classification and labeling, you get to know the proper channel of disposing chemical wastes.
The best way to ensure your safety is to follow every single instructions, which can be sometimes be a challenging if you are working with handwritten text, however with safety data sheets you get the instructions both in text and picture form. Failure to follow instructions always come with repercussions but if you are using chemicals, these consequences might be fatal thus the need to follow instructions.
Unlike before where every country was doing its own classification and labeling, irrespective o your country of origin you will be able to use these safety data sheets. Scrapping for relevant information from one sheet to another trying to understand a chemical labeling or looking for safety measure was a tedious job initially but with safety data sheets, everything is located on one sheet. First aid instructions are available in on the safety data sheets in the event of a chemical accident.
The use of different classification and labeling methods in a country or among industries was often expensive and difficult to regulate, but thanks to globally harmonized system, it has become easier. Some chemicals need special containers for safe transportation, something that can only be learnt through the clear guidelines provided on a standardized safety data sheets. Most chemicals are hazardous to human health and might be life threatening if exposed to civilians but an emergency response team can effectively respond to that if they know what they are dealing with and how to handle it. Safety data sheet management provide guidelines on safe handling practices and safe storage conditions for different chemicals.
The number of employees who were becoming sick due to frequent exposure to chemicals before the global harmonization system were so many and they spent a lot on hospital bills. Unauthorized persons are not allowed to access chemicals which can be used for destruction. Use of safety data sheets promotes confidentiality since the information gathered by employees is meant to stay within the company for safety reasons. Through technology, chemical safety is enhanced because of the ability to keep an eye on the people acquiring and using chemicals. These are the reasons to use globally harmonized system safety data sheets. Check out here on how to manage SDS with an app on your phone.
Get more info at https://www.encyclopedia.com/environment/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/material-safety-data-sheets