GHS (Globally Harmonized System of labeling chemicals)
Objective
The objective of the Globally Harmonized System of Labelling Chemicals (GHS) is to bring together the major world classification and labelling systems into one single new system. Three main elements are being developed:
- a GHS classification system for chemical substances (which is almost complete)
- a GHS classification system for mixtures/preparations
- and a GHS system for hazard communication (which includes labelling and safety data sheets).
Background
In 1992, an international mandate to develop a globally harmonized system for hazard classification and labelling was adopted at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), commonly referred to as the Earth Summit. It was recognized that globally harmonized hazard classification and labelling systems were not available to promote the safe use of chemicals, for example at the workplace or in the home.
The OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) is responsible for developing the work on classification of substances and mixtures. The ILO (International Labour Organisation) is responsible for the work on hazard communication.
The benefits of a harmonised classification and labelling system are to increase competitiveness and open up new markets around the world; which will have a positive economic impact. The GHS will also offer a high level of protection of human health and the environment by ensuring that chemicals are classified and labelled to the same high standards throughout the world.
The OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) is responsible for developing the work on classification of substances and mixtures. The ILO (International Labour Organisation) is responsible for the work on hazard communication.
The benefits of a harmonised classification and labelling system are to increase competitiveness and open up new markets around the world; which will have a positive economic impact. The GHS will also offer a high level of protection of human health and the environment by ensuring that chemicals are classified and labelled to the same high standards throughout the world.