Objective To explore the application of Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) in the risk assessment of toxic chemicals in workplace, so as to provide advice on occupational hazard risk assessment and management.
Methods We simultaneously calculated the toxicant hazardous indices (THIs) of occupational chemical hazards in a spraying workshop based on filed survey data plus occupational health records and GHS classification for comparison.
Results Toluene, xylene, ethyl benzene, and butyl acetate were detected in the spraying workshop, and the THIs of each chemical were 38, 26, 32, and 26, respectively. The THI for the spraying workshop was 38 according to GBZ/T 229.2-2010, indicating moderate occupational hazard. The THI in the spraying workshop was 42 according to the GHS classification system, suggesting moderate occupational hazard as well.
Conclusion The estimated occupational chemical hazard levels are consistent by the two selected methods. Therefore, the GHS classification system could be used in risk assessment and management of occupational chemical hazards in workplace, but a more concrete assessment index system is required.
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