Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)
The GHS is a single internationally agreed system of classification and labelling of chemicals, which was developed under the auspices of the United Nations.
The GHS includes harmonised criteria for:
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the classification of physical hazards (such as flammability),
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health hazards (such as carcinogenicity) and
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environmental hazards
These criteria are used to evaluate the hazards of both substances and mixtures. The GHS is intended to cover all hazardous chemical substances, dilute solutions and mixtures and address how labels and safety data sheets should be used to convey information about their hazards, and how to protect people from these effects.
The System is expected to:
• enhance the protection of people and the environment by providing an internationally comprehensive system for chemical
hazard communication;
• provide a recognised framework for those countries without an existing system;
• reduce the need for duplicative testing and evaluation of chemicals; and
• facilitate international trade in chemicals whose hazards have been properly assessed and identified on an international basis.
Safe Work Australia is the lead agency for promoting implementation of the GHS in Australia, and has been developing a new framework for the control of workplaces hazardous chemicals that utilises the GHS as the primary hazard classification and hazard communication system.
Information on GHS implementation in other countries is available from the following websites:
UNECE (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe)
OSHA USA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
Europe (European Commission)
Canada (Health Canada)
HSE Great Britain (Health and Safety Executive)
GHS Information Sheet (119kB)
The current GHS documents may be found at the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe website.
Page last updated: 03/05/2010