Comprehensibility Testing and its role in the implementation of the GHS

Background No hazard communication system is intuitively obvious Training is a key factor in the successful implementation of any national GHS program Promoting training and awareness Integrating comprehensibility testing in the introduction of National GHS programs

No hazard communication system is intuitively obvious Confusion between certain symbols e.g. oxidising and flammable Understanding of colour sequences in agriculture have to be learnt Labels key source on obtaining instructions on how to use chemical rather than accessing safety information

Training is a key factor in the successful implementation of any GHS introduction Carefully directed information and training materials will have to be developed to assist in the uptake of GHS Prioritisation of key methods e.g. symbols – Comprehensbiity testing plays key role in identification of those areas of confusion e.g oxidising/flammable. – Similarly the effectiveness of colour sequences in agriculture – Language – need to develop simpler wording. – Use of translation – Use of alternate methods of communication

Linking awareness and comprehension of GHS & goal of appropriate safety procedures protecting the individual, other workers, public and environment Any training materials covering GHS need to include general sections on chemical hazards, exposures, exposure prevention for the GHS system to be understood and applied Need to develop mechanisms that inform workers and consumers what the intended meanings and behavioural outcomes are. Once off training and communication not enough

Targeting other support and information sources Testing showed that workers seek information from each other and immediate supervisors Occupational Health services at the workplace can provide useful information Labour union focus on OHS and need to include GHS elements NGOs provide support to consumers and workers

Standardising and harmonising training Need for portable skills Where training standards and qualifications exist can provide useful basis for incorporation of GHS into training standards Possible access to funding Incorporation into school syllabi

Developing alternative and innovative training methodologies Existing training focuses on the workplace Need to develop techniques that address wide audience Alternate media examples are comic books, radio infomercials, utilisation of existing TV shows, both drama and learning channels Developing appropriate games

What is the most appropriate time for comprehensibility testing As part of the Situational Analysis ? Only during the implementation stage ?

Provides key information for implementation strategy Key to establish baselines and identify what current training capacity exists throughout country (including both formal and informal) Identify key possible role players Identify institutional structures that would support training Provides crucial information on gaps and needs for this crucial leg of the GHS Provides information to the regulatory authority on certain of the discretionary elements within the GHS

Simplifying the Comprehensibility Tool Simplifying and shortening the test Reviewing data from SA testing Identifying most sensitive tests Incorporating those in revised model Reviewing guidance material to simplify.

Conclusion Training key to GHS Comprehensibility testing provides essential information on what needs to be done and who can play crucial roles. On international level comprehensibility testing should be done before any new symbols, precautionary statements finalised