What is GHS
GHS stands for the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. The globally harmonized system is a classification that is intended to enhance environmental protection, public health and reduce trade barriers by using universal hazard statements, pictograms and signal words to communicate information on product labels and Material Safety Data Sheets.
Under the new Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of SDS and Label authoring, chemical manufacturers, importers, and distributors are required to update the way they classify and communicate the hazards of their products.
GHS InfoSafe
This article will give you a crash course in how the GHS handles Hazard Classification and the new hazard categories so that you can be prepared for North America’s GHS implementation. We suggest you use this article in tandem with the official GHS “Purple Book” (revision 10 – updated 2023) when classifying your materials.
By law, all Safety Data Sheets (SDS) should have been converted to the GHS format by June, 2015. The goal is to make the handling and transportation of chemicals safer and easier with a structured set of uniformed guidelines. GHS InfoSafe is here to help companies make a smooth transition to GHS compliance if you are still working towards it.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand your requirement! We’ll guide you through the process and create fully compliant documentation based on the product details you provide.
No, we are not a technical software provider. To ensure compliance, we have experts who specialize in tracking and adapting to the constantly changing international product regulations and legislative updates.
Our team ensures your product documentation stays up-to-date with evolving regulations in your target markets, outdated documents can become a concern. We future-proof your compliance, giving you peace of mind for international distribution.
No, GHS InfoSafe is devoted to safeguarding client confidentiality and ensuring the secure handling of product information. We strictly prohibit sharing any client product details or documentation with third parties.
No, GHS InfoSafe is devoted to safeguarding client confidentiality and ensuring the secure handling of product information. We strictly prohibit sharing any client product details or documentation with third parties.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide comprehensive information about a chemical’s properties, hazards, safe handling, storage, and emergency measures. GHS requires SDS to have a uniform 16-section format.
No, we are not a regulatory authority or connected to any government entity. We are an independent consulting agency offering professional documentation and compliance review services for chemical products.
GHS InfoSafe welcomes partnerships with like-minded companies to grow our network of trusted vendors. Please share details on how your company can enhance or complement our services.
GHS InfoSafe is always looking for industry expert consultants with interest in international product regulations. We are currently looking for consultants who can partner with us on affiliate basis and will be entitled a percentage on that particular account. Feel free to email us at info@ghsinfosafe.com
GHS Frequently Asked Questions
GHS is a system developed by the United Nations to standardize the classification and labeling of chemicals. It ensures that chemical hazards are consistently communicated across different countries and industries.
GHS was created to: Enhance the protection of human health and the environment. Provide a unified framework for hazard classification and communication. Reduce the need for multiple regulations across different countries. Improve international trade by harmonizing chemical hazard communication.
Hazard Classification: Categorizing chemicals based on their physical, health, and environmental hazards.
Labels: Standardized elements like pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and precautionary statements.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS): A consistent 16-section format for detailed chemical safety information.
GHS covers three main hazard classes:
Physical Hazards: e.g., flammability, reactivity.
Health Hazards: e.g., toxicity, skin irritation.
Environmental Hazards: e.g., aquatic toxicity.
GHS pictograms are symbols on labels used to indicate specific hazards. They are usually red-bordered diamonds with a black symbol on a white background (e.g., a flame for flammability, a skull and crossbones for toxicity).
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide comprehensive information about a chemical’s properties, hazards, safe handling, storage, and emergency measures. GHS requires SDS to have a uniform 16-section format.
While GHS itself is a recommendation, many countries have adopted its standards into their local regulations. For example, OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) in the United States aligns with GHS.
GHS provides a unified, international framework that replaces varying classification and labeling systems across countries. This reduces confusion and enhances safety globally.
- Chemical manufacturers and importers.
- Employers handling hazardous chemicals.
- Transporters of hazardous materials.
- Visit the official UN GHS website.
- Refer to regulatory bodies in your country (e.g., OSHA in the US, ECHA in the EU).
