OSHA, Health Canada create work plan for coordinated hazcom effort
Washington – OSHA and Health Canada have developed a work plan intended to align U.S. and Canadian requirements for classifying, and sharing information about, work-related chemical hazards.
The work plan stems from a 2013 Memorandum of Understanding signed by OSHA and Canada’s Department of Health to create a coordinated system that permits using one label and one Safety Data Sheet in both countries.
The 2016-2017 Workplace Chemicals Work Plan includes:
- Creating materials to help stakeholders implement the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, as well as understanding technical matters and requirements in the United States and Canada
- Coordinating opinions on issues that result from international discussions about GHS
- Maintaining alignment when changes are made
“This plan is part of ongoing efforts between OSHA and Health Canada to reduce regulatory barriers between U.S. and Canadian systems responsible for chemical safety and provide concise information to protect workers exposed to hazardous chemicals,” OSHA administrator David Michaels said in a press release.
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