The Backstory
Mexico’s implementation of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) became mandatory on October 9, 2018, exactly three years after it was first promulgated in Mexico’s Official Journal—Diario Oficial de la Federación.
What’s Changing
With Mexico’s implementation of workplace standard NOM-018-STPS-2015, which adopts elements of the 5th Revised Edition of the GHS, comes significant changes, not only to the content and layout of Safety Data Sheets (SDS), but also with their associated hazard labels.
Implications
While there are many detailed requirements outlined in NOM-018-STPS-2015, for classifying hazards and creating corresponding SDS, some quick tips on creating a compliant document include:
- The SDS must be written in Spanish
- Section 8 must contain the official exposure limits established under NOM-010-STPS-2014
- Concentration ranges can be used in Section 3 for mixtures, but the classification determined in Section 2 must be assigned based upon the upper limit of this range
Enterprises placing products on the market in Mexico are wise to begin exploring automated, software-driven solutions so that these and other changes can be made as seamlessly as possible. Whatever your regulatory needs are, Global Safety Management and its team of compliance experts are here to help. Questions? Contact us today!
