2019-2020 RCC work plan: Globally harmonized system for classification and labelling of chemicals (workplace hazards)
Canadian Department: : Health Canada – Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch
United States Department/Agency: Department of Labor – Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)
Regulatory cooperation statement:
Health Canada's Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch and the United States (U.S.) Department of Labor will continue to collaborate on implementing updates to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling (GHS) in their respective jurisdictions.
The objective of this collaboration is to ensure that the Canadian and U.S. requirements for hazard classification and communication remain aligned to the greatest extent possible with each other and with the GHS as it is updated. Where possible, the objective is to have one label and one safety data sheet (SDS) that would be acceptable in both countries, while respecting the legislative and regulatory requirements of each country and without reducing the level of safety or protection to workers.
This work is in line with the 2018 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Health Canada and the U.S. Department of Labor.
Initiative | Desired outcome(s) | Activities | Reporting |
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1. Develop guidance for stakeholders | A joint guidance supporting the implementation of the GHS and interpretation of technical issues and requirements in both Canada and the U.S. |
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2. Coordinate common positions and participate at the United Nations Sub-committee of Experts on the GHS (UNSCEGHS) | Establishment of forward plans, where appropriate, to address international issues raised at the UNSCEGHS. |
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3. Maintain alignment on the implementation of the GHS | Having one label and one SDS, where possible, that would be acceptable in both countries, without reducing the level of safety or protection to workers. |
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