Classifying and Labelling Chemicals According to the UN GHS
The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) was adopted by the United Nations in 2003. The GHS is an important tool that countries can draw upon to develop national chemical hazard communication systems. The GHS represents a key step in harmonizing national chemical hazard communication systems worldwide and has great potential to improve chemical safety across all relevant sectors.
With the goal to enhance knowledge and skills of concerning the GHS, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is offering an interactive GHS e-learning course. The course is adapted from the GHS training course materials developed by UNITAR, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and Orange House Partnership (OHP), and was peer-reviewed by a technical advisory group of UNITAR/ILO in the context of the UN Subcommittee of Experts on the GHS (UN SCEGHS).
Participants will learn about the purpose, scope, and application of the GHS; classification of hazardous substances and mixtures; and hazard communication (labelling and safety data sheets). After completing the course, participants will be able to:
- Describe and analyse the international policy framework for the GHS and international chemicals management
- Apply GHS criteria in classifying physical, health, and environmental hazards
- Select appropriate hazard communication elements
- Develop GHS-based labels and safety data sheets
- Develop hazard communication strategies adapted to specific contexts
The course is internet-based, interactive, and places emphasis on self-paced learning to accommodate professionals in full-time work.
Moderated by course facilitator(s) who are experts in the field, the total number of learning hours is 40 hours over a 7-week period.
Specific course features include:
- Compulsory and optional readings
- Case studies, practical exercises, and quizzes
- Moderated discussions and interactions
- Certificate of completion
- Links to books, articles, documents, and websites
The course targets the following groups and individuals:
- GHS competent authorities
- Civil servants in national ministries, provincial departments, and local authorities (“regulators”)
- Environmental and occupational safety managers in the private sector
- Private sector employees responsible for hazard assessment/classification and preparing labels and SDS
- Civil society organizations interested in consumer safety, chemicals management, or right-to-know
- Faculty, researchers, and students
- Interested citizens
The course participation fee is USD 1000. Some fellowships are available for participants from least developed countries working in the field of public sector, academia, or non-profit organizations.
Register at: http://www.unitar.org/event/elearning
Registration deadline: 7 May 2014 (or until maximum number of course participants is reached)
Contact: cwm [at] unitar.org (cwm[at]unitar[dot]org)