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Wilson RISK Scale of Material Hazards

Definition

• The Wilson RISK Scale of Material Hazards is a numeric rating system that assesses the following acute hazards:
  • Reactivity
  • Inhalation
  • Skin contact
  • Kindling (fire)

Additional Info

This system is unique to MSDS's produced by the Genium Publishing Corporation, a commercial publisher of hazardous materials information and MSDS's. The numbers on the Wilson RISK Scale range from 0 to 4 with 0 being the least hazard and 4 being the greatest hazard. In this context, it works similarly to the HMIS and NFPA hazard rating systems. Genium's web site states that the ratings represent "a material's degree of hazard based on documented values and/or the best judgments of certified industrial hygienists." However, we have found virtually no other publicly-accessible information about the scale itself or how one would assign RISK ratings to various substances. We have contacted Genium on more than one occasion and received no reply. Because of the lack of available information or guidance, we find the Wilson RISK system to be an unacceptable method of conveying chemical hazard information.

Safety Emporium carries a number of colorful safety posters that explain the most common hazardous chemical labeling systems.

MSDS Relevance

See above. This scale is unique to MSDS's produced by Genium Publishing Corporation. We find the Wilson RISK system unacceptable because there is no publicly-accessible information that details the scale assignments or hazard classes.

In 2010, we conducted a random Google search of various Genium MSDS's, and it appears that they are either no longer using it as a standard part of their authoring suite or only use it for certain substances.

Further Reading

Nothing at all to suggest here, sorry.

See also: CHIP, flammable, HMIS, NFPA, useless abbreviations.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.