International Chemical Safety Cards

International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs) are data sheets intended to provide essential safety and health information on chemicals to workers and employers worldwide. They are a product of a unique collaboration between the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), and the World Health Organization (WHO). The primary goal of ICSCs is to promote the safe use of chemicals in the workplace, contributing to the prevention of chemical exposures and accidents.

Overview

ICSCs offer concise and authoritative information on the hazards of chemicals, along with advice on first aid, fire fighting, and the storage and handling of substances. Each card addresses a single substance or a group of related compounds. The information is presented in a standardized format that is easily accessible and understandable by workers, regardless of their educational background or knowledge of chemicals.

Content

The content of an ICSC includes:

• Chemical identification (including synonyms and trade names)
• Physical and chemical properties
• Health hazard information
• Precautions for safe handling and use
• First-aid measures
• Fire-fighting measures
• Accidental release measures
• Information on exposure control and personal protection
• Regulatory information
• Additional information, such as environmental effects and related substances

Format

ICSCs are designed to be clear and straightforward, using simple language and pictograms to convey key information. The format is standardized to ensure consistency and ease of use across different chemicals and languages. ICSCs are available in multiple languages, making them a valuable resource for a global audience.

Access and Distribution

ICSCs are freely available and can be accessed online through the websites of the IPCS and the ILO. They are intended for wide distribution and can be downloaded and printed without restriction. This open access policy supports the global dissemination of critical safety information to all who need it.

Importance

The widespread use and distribution of ICSCs play a crucial role in improving workplace safety and health standards worldwide. By providing essential information in a user-friendly format, ICSCs empower workers and employers to take informed actions to prevent accidents and exposures to hazardous chemicals.

Challenges and Future Directions

While ICSCs are a valuable resource, their effectiveness depends on their integration into workplace safety practices and the broader chemical safety framework. Ongoing efforts to update and expand the ICSC database, increase awareness and use of ICSCs, and integrate them into national and international chemical safety programs are essential for maximizing their impact.

See Also

• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
• Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)