Chemical Labeling Harmonized System
Ghs allows companies across the globe to have one common coherent framework for classifying and communicating information related to chemicals.
Chemical labeling harmonized system. Although it is common many people still get a little confused about what ghs is exactly. The hazard communication standard hcs is now aligned with the globally harmonized system of classification and labeling of chemicals ghs. Globally harmonized system requirements are prevalent across various industries to meet global regulatory labeling and tracking challenges. It sets up criteria for the classification of chemicals for physical chemical health and.
Core elements of the ghs include standardized hazard testing criteria universal warning pictograms and. On the next page is a summary of the terms used in the system. Campus chemical users should familiarize themselves with the basic aspects of this system and they will eventually see these. The ghs is an acronym for the globally harmonized system of classification and labeling of chemicals.
This information sheet provides information on the globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals ghs. This update to the hazard communication standard hcs will provide a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. Classification and labelling for workplace hazardous chemicals poster. Hazard statements hazard classes signal words and pictograms etc.
Defining health physical and environmental hazards of chemicals. It is a logical and comprehensive approach to. The united nations globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals ghs provides a harmonised basis for globally uniform physical environmental and health and safety information on hazardous chemical substances and mixtures. The globally harmonized system of classification and labelling of chemicals ghs is an internationally agreed upon standard managed by the united nations that was set up to replace the assortment of hazardous material classification and labelling schemes previously used around the world.
This information is helpful for manufacturers importers suppliers and end users of hazardous chemicals. The ghs is a single worldwide system for classifying and communicating the. Given the expanding international market in chemical substances and mixtures to help protect people and the environment and to facilitate trade the united nations has therefore developed a globally harmonised system ghs on classification and labelling. Cal osha adopted use of the globally harmonized system ghs of chemical classification and labeling which supersedes earlier systems.
The ghs is a system for standardizing and harmonizing the classification and labeling of chemicals. But alongside the benefits of these products there is also the potential for adverse effects to people or the environment.