Are you an SDS author, a label preparer, a product steward, or an industrial hygienist with responsibility for your hazard communication program? If you are, you should consider becoming a registered SDS and Label Author through the AIHA Registry Programs. This registry was jointly developed by AIHA and the Society for Chemical Hazard Communication to recognize hazard communication professionals. All registered SDS authors receive the Safety Data Sheet Registered Professional (SDSRP) credential.

Now that you are interested in becoming registered, you’re probably wondering how to prepare for the assessment. The registry has worked with experts to develop some materials to help you prepare, and you can find them on the registries website (PDF). AIHA also offers a recorded registry preparation course, but nothing beats a live preparation course.

SCHC is offering a live registry prep course in conjunction with the SCHC Spring Conference in Las Vegas, March 16–17, 2019. With the registration deadline just days away—February 9—you need to act now. You can register and find more information on the SCHC website.

In this two-day course, experts will cover all the topic areas of the assessment and body of knowledge to help you get ready for success. The course covers the concepts of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals and hazard communication in addition to the classification skills required to correctly identify hazards. Both the foundational concepts of hazard assessment and the detailed criteria for identifying hazards will be covered in addition to the basics of math, chemistry, toxicology, ecotoxicology, and risk assessment related to hazard communication. International implementation of the GHS will also be discussed. Each presentation includes practice questions and exercises to help you become confident in your skills. You will have plenty of time to ask questions and get clarification on some of the classification issues that you may find challenging.

Some people take this class as the final preparation for the assessment that will also be offered in conjunction with the SCHC Conference. Others take it to identify their weaknesses so they can better prepare to take the assessment later. Taking the course does not guarantee a passing score on the assessment, but it is a fun way to get ready to join the ranks of SDSRPs.

It should also be a nice warm and fun break from winter. I hope to see you in Las Vegas.