We take pride in keeping our readers informed to changes in the workplace particularly when safety is involved. Given that our readers are in regular contact with chemicals such as Direct Glazing Adhesives, Primers, Activators, Cleaners etc. we believe it is important to draw your attention to the latest changes announced by Safe Work Australia.
Effective 1 January 2017 Safe Work Australia has adopted the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
The GHS is a system used to classify and communicate chemical hazards using internationally consistent terms and information on chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets.
The GHS provides criteria for the classification of physical hazards (e.g. flammable liquids), health hazards (e.g. carcinogens) and environmental hazards (e.g. aquatic toxicity).
Some of the changes include the use of Pictograms. There are nine hazard pictograms in the GHS which represent the physical, health and environmental hazards. For example;
The GHS was created by the United Nations to create a single worldwide methodology for chemical classification, labelling and safety data sheets (SDS). The system ensures that users are provided with practical, reliable and easy to understand information on chemical hazards, and can take the appropriate preventive and protective measures for their health and safety.
Some but not all products that you may use can be affected by these changes and we urge you to fully read the suppliers Safety Data Sheet to understand if they are affected and the safe use of these products. It is important to understand the risks involved to you and your employees and possible mitigation procedures. For example, some suppliers state the requirement of respiratory protection unless adequate local exhaust ventilation is provided.
Merbenit SK212 is an advanced formula high quality Adhesive Sealant based on Silyl Modified Polymer (SMP) and does not contain isocyanates and therefore does not require any such labelling. It is the future of Direct Glazing Adhesives and Sealants and does not expose you, your customers or your auto glazier to any harmful chemicals.
For more information, please refer to the Safe Work Australia website.
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