The Globally Harmonized System for the Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (The GHS) - Implementation of the GHS in Canada

Workshop, October 15, 2003

Overview of the Workshop

The purpose of the workshop was to launch the implementation of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) in Canada. With the specific objectives:

• for the government to explain the GHS and to start to build a common understanding;
• for government to listen as stakeholders express their ideas about GHS implementation;
• to identify issues associated with the implementation of GHS in Canada and
• to identify options/solutions for the implementation of a GHS in Canada.

The Agenda is posted on this web page for reference.

The workshop was well attended with 117 participants from across Canada and the US.

The presentations from the Government of Canada included an the overview of GHS, the sectoral presentations and an overview of the implementation plan.

This was followed by a panel discussion and question and answer session. Concerns included:

• armonization with the major trading partners and how coordination would take place in terms of timing and progress of implementation
• the difference in US and Canada on dealing with trade secret and disclosures
• regulations development process and consultative process
• transition period for implementation and the number of label amendments
• the link with other agencies affected by GHS (eg. National Fire Code)
• the affect on the Business Impact Test for North American sales
• time lines for GHS training programs
• consistencies in label format

In the afternoon, the participants went to the breakout sessions of their choice: WHMIS, Pest Control Products, Consumer Chemicals, Transportation of Dangerous Goods. Two questions were posed to the groups for brainstorming and discussion:

• What are your issues or concerns for a successful transition to the GHS?
• What are the options or solutions which would address your concerns?

At the closing plenary, rapporteurs summarized the session with presentations on the themes of different concerns, a list of options /solutions and other points that emerged during discussions. The rapporteurs were as follows:

• Jacques Cerf on the topic of WHMIS
• Stephen Rathlou on the topic of Consumer Chemicals
• Peter MacLeod on the topic Pest Control Products
• Ron Czura, on the topic of Transportation of Dangerous Goods

A variety of views and concerns were presented during the day in an atmosphere of openness and respect.