The improper handling and labelling of hazardous chemicals have resulted in thousands of accidents and injuries, annually. In industries and even households alike, exposure to these substances without adequate safety measures can lead to severe health risks, including burns, poisoning, respiratory issues and fatalities.
Recognizing the critical importance of safe handling and proper labelling of chemicals, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) developed the National Standard: GYS 9-14:2003 – Specification for Labelling of commodities – Part 14: Labelling of hazardous industrial chemicals, a comprehensive standard for use by manufacturers and distributors of hazardous industrial chemicals sold in Guyana, whether locally made or imported.
These hazardous chemicals include chlorine, ammonia, phosgene, hydrogen cyanide, acids, solvents, pesticides, herbicides, fertilisers, fuels, petrochemicals, and intermediates used in the manufacture of plastics. These chemicals are quite harmful to humans.
The standard mandates that all labels shall be prominently and conspicuously displayed, and all information shall be visible, clear and shall be legible in English. Additionally, no words, illustrations or symbols referring to the safety, nature, origin, quality or performance of the product, that is likely to give an erroneous impression shall be used.
Further, the standard makes provision for precautionary labelling which should include aspects such as identity of product or hazardous component(s), signal words including “DANGER!”, “WARNING!” and “CAUTION!”, statement of hazard, precautionary measures, instructions in case of fire, spill, or leak as well as instructions for container handling, shipment and storage.
As it relates to fire, spill and/or leak actions, the standard requires that instructions be included on the label to provide persons who handle containers during shipment and storage, with appropriate instructions for confining and extinguishing fires and for cleaning up spills and leaks.
Meanwhile, for container handling, shipment and storage, containers with chemicals requiring special or unusual handling and storage procedures shall carry additional instructions such as “avoid rough handling or dropping”.
Finally, regarding symbols, the designs, sizes and colours of the standard symbols to be used on containers for indicating the classes of dangerous goods are outlined in the standard for guidance.
Adherence to this standard should be a critical component of the operations of local companies that engage in the business of handling and distributing harmful/dangerous chemicals. By adhering to the standard, manufacturers, importers and distributors contribute to the safe handling, storage, and use of hazardous chemicals. Proper labelling not only protects workers and consumers but also enhances overall public health and safety by reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
The GNBS ensures safe and responsible chemical handling by strictly following the guidelines stipulated in safety standards throughout its operations. For further information, visitwww.gnbsgy.org or contact the GNBS today on Telephone numbers: 219-0064 or 219-0065, You can also WhatsApp us on +592 692 4627.
