As we approach the start of another new year, we also approach the start of new regulatory requirements. Both the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and the IMDG Code have new editions for 2011. The IATA regulations go into effect on January 1, while the IMDG Code has a 1 year transition period before becoming mandatory. If you ship using either of these regulations, you must ask yourself “Am I ready?”

IATA has made significant changes for 2011, and as a regulatory specialist, I am expecting A LOT of panicked phone calls from shippers (and carriers) who were unaware of the changes. In addition to the typical minor changes that happen on a yearly basis, IATA has completely revamped the limited quantity requirements as well as the packing instructions in section 5. The limited quantity requirements even have a new section number assigned to them. I can’t even begin to imagine how much confusion there is going to be with the new packing instructions!

The IMDG Code changes are not as drastic as IATA’s, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be questions. The limited quantity changes have made their way into the IMDG Code, so people who deal with those shipments are going to have to brush up on both regulations.

If you haven’t already checked out the new regulations, make sure that you do so as soon as possible. And don’t forget, if you do run into any problems or questions with any regulatory requirements, you can give us a call and we will help you out.

I was recently asked to give an overview of how MSDS’s are used in the workplace to some of my coworkers. Coming from a laboratory background, I often forget that many people do not know what an MSDS (or Material Safety Data Sheet) is and why they are important in the workplace. For those of you who may not be familiar with what an MSDS is or how and why it is a very important piece of safety equipment in the workplace, here are few highlights.

What is an MSDS?

An MSDS is a document that provides safety information for a product or material. MSDS’s are generally used in a workplace or emergency situation and contains information such as:

• Hazards of the product
• Safe use of the product
• Symptoms of exposure to the product
• First aid procedures
• Emergency procedures

Who uses an MSDS?

• Employees who need to know proper safety and handling information for a product or material they use occupationally in the workplace
• Employers or employees who need to provide safety training and equipment
• Employers or employees who need to determine proper storage for materials
• Emergency response personnel; such as firefighters, first responders, EMT’s and ER personnel
• MSDS’s are not intended to be used by consumers for household use of products!

How are MSDS’s formatted?

Currently, there is not one MSDS format that is recognized worldwide.

• The US follows the OSHA requirements (no specific format is required, but the ANSI standard format may be used to comply)
• Canada follows the WHMIS requirements (a 9 or 16 format is specified, and the ANSI standard format may be used for a 16 section MSDS under WHMIS)
• EU, Asia, other regions and countries have their own requirements

What about the GHS (Globally Harmonized System)?

The GHS will standardize the format and information required on MSDS’s.

• GHS specifies a 16 section format that is similar to the ANSI standard format
• Will allow for harmonized MSDS’s among countries that adopt the GHS into regulation
• Will make MSDS’s much more internationally recognized
• There will likely still be country specific information required