Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Chemicals, through the different steps from their production to their handling, transport and use, are a real danger for human health and the environment. People of any ages, from children to elderly, using many different languages and alphabets, belonging to various social conditions, including illiterates, are daily confronted to dangerous products (chemicals, pesticides, etc.) To face this danger, and given the reality of the extensive global trade in chemicals and the need to develop national programs to ensure their safe use, transport and disposal, it was recognized that an internationally-harmonized approach to classification and labelling would provide the foundation for such programs. Once countries have consistent and appropriate information on the chemicals they import or produce in their own countries, the infrastructure to control chemical exposures and protect people and the environment can be established in a comprehensive manner. The new system, which was called "Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)", addresses classification of chemicals by types of hazard and proposes harmonized hazard communication elements, including labels and safety data sheets. It aims at ensuring that information on physical hazards and toxicity from chemicals be available in order to enhance the protection of human health and the environment during the handling, transport and use of these chemicals. The GHS also provides a basis for harmonization of rules and regulations on chemicals at national, regional and worldwide level, an important factor also for trade facilitation. While governments, regional institutions and international organizations are the primary audiences for the GHS, it also contains sufficient context and guidance for those in industry who will ultimately be implementing the requirements which have been adopted.

Status Active

Print ISSN 2412-155X

Online ISSN 2412-1576

Language(s)

English

Subject Environment and Climate Change

DOI 10.18356/a6a925c3-en

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

( Print: June 2003, PDF: October 2006 )

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) focuses on the classification of chemicals by the types of hazards that they present. It also proposes standard hazard...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

First Revised Edition

( Print: August 2005, PDF: October 2006 )

The use of chemical products to enhance and improve life is a widespread practice worldwide. Alongside the benefits of these products, there is also the potential for adverse effects to people and the...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Second Revised Edition

( Print: July 2007, PDF: July 2007 )

The GHS addresses classification of chemicals by types of hazard and proposes harmonized hazard communication elements, including labels and safety data sheets. It aims at ensuring that information on...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Third Revised Edition

( Print: August 2009, PDF: October 2010 )

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Fourth Revised Edition

( Print: June 2011, PDF: August 2011 )

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) addresses classification and labelling of chemicals by types of hazards and provides the basis for worldwide...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Sixth revised edition

( Print: July 2015, PDF: June 2015 )

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) addresses classification and labelling of chemicals by types of hazards. It provides the basis for worldwide...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Seventh revised edition

( Print: July 2017, PDF: July 2017 )

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) addresses classification and labelling of chemicals by types of hazards. It provides the basis for worldwide...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Eighth Revised Edition

( Print: June 2019, PDF: June 2019 )

This publication addresses classification and labeling of chemicals by types of hazards. It provides the basis for worldwide harmonization of rules and regulations on chemicals and aims at enhancing...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Ninth Revised Edition

( Print: July 2021, PDF: August 2021 )

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

Tenth Revised Edition

( Print: July 2023, PDF: July 2023 )

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) (Set of Book with...

First Revised Edition

( Print: December 2005 )

This Set includes the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, which provides a basis for harmonization of rules and regulations on chemicals at national, regional and...

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) (Set of Book with...

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) has been developed through co-operation between the International Labour Office (ILO), the Organization for Economic...