Global Harmonization

An effort under the banner of Global Harmonization is underway to standardize regulation worldwide. In view of our shrinking planet and nations united

Bob Eckhardt

An effort Û under the banner of Global Harmonization Û is underway to standardize regulation worldwide. In view of our shrinking planet and nations united against terrorism, countries are optimizing defensive strategies by utilizing synonymous regulations or, at least, groupings of similar requirements. Global harmonization of shipping regulations, for example, has enabled more efficient transport, especially of dangerous goods and materials. In the safety arena generally, universal management systems [ISO] and regulatory language have contributed to worldwide standardization.

Almost all countries have safety requirements comparable in practice with respect to hazard communications, lockout-tagout, fall protection, training, signage, and personal protective equipment. Today, many multinational companies are revising their standards by deleting references to regulation of the country of corporate origin, while citing only universal, e.g., British or ISO, standards.