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{{Short description|International standard managed by the United Nations}}
[[File:GHS-pictogram-exclam.svg|thumb|The [[GHS hazard pictograms|pictogram]] for harmful substances of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.]]

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. Core elements of the GHS include standardized hazard testing criteria, universal warning pictograms, and safety data sheets which provide users of dangerous goods relevant information with consistent organization. The system acts as a complement to the [[UN number]]ed system of regulated hazardous material transport. Implementation is managed through the [[United Nations Secretariat|UN Secretariat]]. Although adoption has taken time, as of 2017, the system has been enacted to significant extents in most major countries of the world.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/implementation_e.html|title=GHS implementation - Transport - UNECE|website=www.unece.org|access-date=2017-10-18|language=en}}</ref> This includes the [[European Union]], which has implemented the United Nations' GHS into EU law as the [[CLP Regulation]], and United States [[Occupational Safety and Health Administration]] standards.<ref>{{Cite web |title=HCS/HazCom Final Rule Regulatory Text |url=https://www.osha.gov/hazcom/HCS-Final-RegText |access-date=November 30, 2023 |website=U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration}}</ref>

==History==
Before the GHS was created and implemented, there were many different regulations on hazard classification in use in different countries, resulting in multiple standards, classifications and labels for the same hazard. Given the $1.7 trillion per year international trade in chemicals requiring hazard classification, the cost of compliance with multiple systems of classification and labeling is significant. Developing a worldwide standard accepted as an alternative to local and regional systems presented an opportunity to reduce costs and improve compliance.<ref name="OSHA GHS Guide">{{cite web|title=A Guide to The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals|url=https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghsguideoct05.pdf|website=Occupational Safety and Health Administration, United States of America|publisher=OSHA, U.S.A.|access-date=15 November 2018|language=en}}</ref>

The GHS development began at the 1992 Rio Conference on Environment and Development by the United Nations,<ref>{{cite web|title=UK Government HSE website|url=http://www.hse.gov.uk/chemical-classification/index.htm|author=Health and Safety Executive|publisher=UK Government|date=n.d.|language=en}}</ref> also called [[Earth Summit (1992)]], when the [[International Labour Organization]] (ILO), the [[Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development]] (OECD), various governments, and other stakeholders agreed that "A globally harmonized hazard classification and compatible labelling system, including [[material safety data sheets]] and easily understandable [[symbols]], should be available if feasible, by the year 2000".<ref name=visual>{{Cite web|title=GHS: What's Next? Visual.ly|url=http://visual.ly/ghs-whats-next|website=visual.ly|access-date=2015-06-19|language=en}}</ref>

The universal standard for all countries was to replace all the diverse classification systems; however, it is not a compulsory provision of any treaty. The GHS provides a common infrastructure for participating countries to use when implementing a hazard classification and [[Hazard Communication Standard]].<ref name="OSHA GHS Guide"/>

==Hazard classification==
The GHS classification system defines and classifies the physical, health, and/or environmental hazards of a substance. Each category within the classifications has associated [[Pictogram|pictograms]] to be used when applied to a material or mixture.

===Physical hazards===
As of the 10th revision of the GHS,<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=July 2023 |title=GLOBALLY HARMONIZED SYSTEM OF CLASSIFICATION AND LABELLING OF CHEMICALS (GHS) |url=https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2023-07/GHS%20Rev10e.pdf |access-date=November 30, 2023 |website=United Nations Economic Commission for Europe}}</ref> substances or articles are assigned to 17 different [[hazard class]]es largely based on the [[UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods|United Nations Dangerous Goods System]].<ref>{{cite web|title=UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods - Model Regulations|url=http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev19/19files_e.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117032522/http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev19/19files_e.html|volume=I|archive-date=2016-11-17|access-date=2015-11-06|url-status=live|publisher=United Nations Economic Commission for Europe|version=rev. 9|language=en|pages=59–60}}</ref>
# ''[[Explosives]]'' are assigned to one of four subcategories depending on the type of hazard they present, similar to the categories used in the UN Dangerous Goods System. Category 1 includes explosives not covered by the 6 Dangerous Goods categories.
# ''[[Dangerous goods|Flammable gases]]'' are assigned to one of 3 categories based on reactivity:
#* Category 1A includes extremely flammable gases ignitable at 20 °C and [[standard pressure]] of 101.3 kPa, [[Pyrophoricity|pyrophoric]] gases, and chemically unstable gases that may react in the absence of oxygen.
#* Category 1B gases meet the flammability criteria of 1A, but are not pyrophoric or chemically unstable and have a lower flammability limit in air.
#* Category 2 includes gases which do not meet the above criteria but otherwise are flammable at 20 °C and standard pressure.
# ''[[Aerosol|Aerosols]]'' and ''chemicals under pressure'' are categorized into one of 3 categories, but may be additionally classified as explosives or flammable gases if material properties match the previous classifications. From category 1 to 3, aerosols are classified as most to least flammable. All aerosols under these categories carry a bursting hazard.
# ''[[Oxidizing agent|Oxidizing]] gases'' are any gaseous substance which contribute to combustion of other materials more than air would. There is only one category of oxidizing gases.
# ''[[Gas|Gases under pressure]]'' are categorized as compressed, liquefied, refrigerated, or dissolved gases, all of which may [[Explosion|explode]] when heated or (in the case of refrigerated gases) cause cryogenic injury, such as frostbite.
# ''[[Flammable liquid|Flammable liquids]]'' are categorized by [[flammability]], from Category 1 with flash point < 23 °C and initial boiling point < 35 °C to Category 4 with flash point > 60 °C and < 93 °C.
# ''[[Flammable solids]]'' are classified as solid substances which are readily combustible or may contribute to a fire through [[friction]], and ignitable [[Metal powder|metal powders]]. They are placed into Category 1 if a fire is not stopped by wetting the substance, and Category 2 if wetting stops the fire for at least 4 minutes.
# ''Self-reactive substances and mixtures'' are liable to detonate or combust without the participation of [[air]] and are placed into 7 categories from A to G with decreasing reactivity.
#''[[Pyrophoricity|Pyrophoric]] liquids'' are liable to ignite after 5 minutes of coming in contact with air.
#''[[Pyrophoricity|Pyrophoric]] solids'' follow the same criteria as pyrophoric liquids.
# ''Self-heating substances'', which differ from self-reactive substances in that they will only ignite in large quantities (kilograms) and after a long duration of time (hours or days). Category 1 is reserved for samples which self-heat in small quantities (25 mm<sup>2</sup>), and all other self-heating substances that only heat in large quantities are listed under Category 2.
# ''Substances and mixtures which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases'' are categorized from 1 to 3 based on the [[Lower flammability limit|ignitability]] of the gas emitted.
# ''[[Oxidizing agent|Oxidizing]] liquids'' contribute to the combustion of other materials and are categorized from 1 to 3 in decreasing oxidizing potential.
# ''Oxidizing solids'' follow the same criteria as oxidizing liquids.
# ''Organic peroxides'' are unstable substances or mixtures and may be derivatives of hydrogen peroxide. They are categorized from A to G based on inherent ability to [[Explosion|explode]] or otherwise combust.
# ''[[Metal corrosion|Corrosive to metals]]'' materials may damage or destroy metals, based on tests done on aluminum and steel. The corrosion rate must be greater than 6.25 mm/year on either material to qualify under this classification.
# ''[[Phlegmatized explosive|Desensitized explosives]]'' are materials that would otherwise be classified as explosive, but have been stabilized, or phlegmatized, to be exempted from said class.

===Health hazards===
# ''[[Acute toxicity]]'' includes five GHS categories from which the appropriate elements relevant to transport, consumer, worker and environment protection can be selected. Substances are assigned to one of the five [[toxicity]] categories on the basis of LD<sub>50</sub> (oral, dermal) or LC<sub>50</sub> (inhalation).
# ''Skin corrosion'' means the production of irreversible damage to the skin following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to a single harmonized corrosion category. ''[[Skin irritation]]'' means the production of reversible damage to the skin following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to a single [[irritation|irritant]] category. For those authorities, such as [[pesticide]] regulators, wanting more than one designation for skin irritation, an additional mild irritant category is provided.
# ''Serious eye damage'' means the production of tissue damage in the eye, or serious physical decay of vision, following application of a test substance to the front surface of the eye, which is not fully reversible within 21 days of application. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to a single harmonized category. ''Eye irritation'' means changes in the eye following the application of a test substance to the front surface of the eye, which are fully reversible within 21 days of application. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to a single harmonized hazard category. For authorities, such as pesticide regulators, wanting more than one designation for eye irritation, one of two subcategories can be selected, depending on whether the effects are reversible in 21 or 7 days.
# ''Respiratory sensitizer'' means a substance that induces [[hypersensitivity]] of the airways following inhalation of the substance. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to one hazard category. ''Skin sensitizer'' means a substance that will induce an allergic response following skin contact. The definition for "skin [[wikt:sensitizer|sensitizer]]" is equivalent to "contact sensitizer". Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to one hazard category.
# ''Germ cell mutagenicity'' means an agent giving rise to an increased occurrence of [[mutations]] in populations of cells and/or organisms. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to one of two hazard categories. Category 1 has two subcategories.
# ''Carcinogenicity'' means a chemical substance or a mixture of chemical substances that induce [[cancer]] or increase its incidence. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to one of two hazard categories. Category 1 has two subcategories.
# ''[[Reproductive toxicity]]'' includes adverse effects on sexual function and [[fertility]] in adult males and females, as well as [[developmental toxicity]] in offspring. Substances and mixtures with reproductive and/or developmental effects are assigned to one of two hazard categories, 'known or presumed' and 'suspected'. Category 1 has two subcategories for reproductive and developmental effects. Materials which cause concern for the health of breastfed children have a separate category: effects on or via [[Lactation]].
# ''Specific target organ toxicity (STOT) ''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev02/English/03e_part3.pdf|title=Part 3 Health Hazards|work=Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)|version=Second revised edition|publisher=United Nations|access-date=30 September 2017|language=en}}</ref> category distinguishes between single and repeated exposure for [[Target Organ]] Effects. All significant health effects, not otherwise specifically included in the GHS, that can impair function, both reversible and irreversible, immediate and/or delayed are included in the non-lethal target organ/systemic toxicity class (TOST). Narcotic effects and respiratory tract irritation are considered to be target organ systemic effects following a single exposure. Substances and mixtures of the single exposure target organ toxicity hazard class are assigned to one of three hazard categories. Substances and mixtures of the repeated exposure target organ toxicity hazard class are assigned to one of two hazard categories. 
# ''Aspiration hazard'' includes severe acute effects such as [[chemical pneumonia]], varying degrees of [[pulmonary injury]] or death following [[Pulmonary aspiration|aspiration]]. Aspiration is the entry of a liquid or solid directly through the oral or nasal cavity, or indirectly from vomiting, into the [[Vertebrate trachea|trachea]] and [[Respiratory tract#Lower respiratory tract|lower respiratory system]]. Substances and mixtures of this hazard class are assigned to one of two hazard categories this hazard class on the basis of [[viscosity]].

===Environmental hazards===
* ''Acute [[aquatic toxicity]]'' indicates the intrinsic property of a material of causing injury to an [[aquatic organism]] in a short-term exposure. Substances and mixtures of this hazard class are assigned to one of three toxicity categories on the basis of acute toxicity data: LC<sub>50</sub> ([[fish]]) or EC<sub>50</sub> ([[crustacean]]) or ErC<sub>50</sub> (for [[algae]] or other [[aquatic plants]]). These acute toxicity categories may be subdivided or extended for certain sectors.
* ''Chronic aquatic toxicity'' indicates the potential or actual properties of a material to cause adverse effects to aquatic organisms during exposures that are determined in relation to the lifecycle of the organism. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to one of four toxicity categories on the basis of acute data and environmental fate data: LC<sub>50</sub> (fish), EC<sub>50</sub> (crustacea) ErC<sub>50</sub> (for algae or other aquatic plants), and [[Environmental degradation|degradation]] or [[bioaccumulation]].
* [[Ozone depletion potential|Ozone Depleting Potential]] indicates the ability of the materials to damage the Ozone Layer, determined by the [[Montreal Protocol]]. Substances and mixtures bearing this quality have the Hazard Statement H420.

===Classification of mixtures===
The GHS approach to the classification of mixtures for health and environmental hazards uses a tiered approach and is dependent upon the amount of information available for the mixture itself and for its components. Principles that have been developed for the classification of mixtures, drawing on existing systems such as the [[European Union]] (EU) system for classification of preparations laid down in [[Directive 1999/45/EC]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 31, 1999 |title=Directive 1999/45/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 1999 concerning the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations |url=https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A31999L0045 |access-date=November 30, 2023 |website=EUR-Lex}}</ref> The process for the classification of mixtures is based on the following steps:

# Where [[toxicological]] or [[ecotoxicological]] test data are available for the mixture itself, the classification of the mixture will be based on that data;
# Where test data are not available for the mixture itself, then the appropriate [https://www.usequantum.com/classify-chemical-hazard-bridging-principle/#:~:text=Simply%20put%2C%20bridging%20principles%20are,Substantially%20Similar%20Mixtures%2C%20and%20Aerosols. bridging principles] should be applied, which uses test data for components and/or similar mixtures;
# If (1) test data are not available for the mixture itself, and (2) the bridging principles cannot be applied, then use the calculation or cutoff values described in the specific endpoint to classify the mixture.

===Substitute substances===
Companies are encouraged to replace hazardous substances with substances featuring a reduced health risk. As an assistance to assess possible substitute substances, the [[Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance]] (IFA) has developed the Column Model. On the basis of just a small amount of information on a product, substitute substances can be evaluated with the support of this table. The current version from 2020 already includes the amendments of the 12th CLP Adaptation Regulation 2019/521.<ref>{{cite web |title=The GHS Column Model as an aid to selecting substitute substances |url=https://www.dguv.de/ifa/praxishilfen/hazardous-substances/ghs-spaltenmodell-zur-substitutionspruefung/index.jsp |access-date=2023-11-13 |publisher=Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance |language=en, de}}</ref>

==Testing requirements==
The GHS generally defers to the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] and [[OECD]] to provide and verify toxicity testing requirements for substances or mixtures.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=7 July 2004 |title=The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS): Implementation Planning Issues for the Office of Pesticide Programs |url=https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-08/documents/globa-whitepaper.pdf |access-date=12 January 2024 |website=[[United States Environmental Protection Agency|www.epa.gov]]}}</ref> Overall, the GHS criteria for determining health and environmental hazards are test method neutral, allowing different approaches as long as they are scientifically sound and validated according to international procedures and criteria already referred to in existing systems. Test data already generated for the classification of chemicals under existing systems should be accepted when classifying these chemicals under the GHS, thereby avoiding duplicative testing and the unnecessary use of test animals.<ref name=":0" />

For physical hazards, the test criteria are linked to specific [[UN]] [[test methods]].<ref name=":0" />

==Hazard communication==
Per GHS, hazards need to be communicated:<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal |last1=Winder |first1=Chris |last2=Azzi |first2=Rola |last3=Wagner |first3=Drew |date=October 2005 |title=The development of the globally harmonized system (GHS) of classification and labelling of hazardous chemicals |url=https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S030438940500292X |journal=Journal of Hazardous Materials |language=en |volume=125 |issue=1–3 |pages=29–44 |doi=10.1016/j.jhazmat.2005.05.035|pmid=16039045 |bibcode=2005JHzM..125...29W |url-access=subscription }}</ref><ref name=":0" />{{Rp|location=|page=4}}
* in more than one form (for example, placards, labels or Safety Data Sheets),
* with [[GHS hazard statements|hazard statements]] and [[GHS precautionary statements|precautionary statements]],
* in an easily comprehensible and standardized manner,
* consistent with other statements to reduce confusion, and
* taking into account all existing research and any new evidence.

Comprehensibility is a significant consideration in GHS implementation. The [[GHS Purple Book]] includes a comprehensibility-testing instrument in Annex 6. Factors that were considered in developing the GHS communication tools include:<ref name=":1" />
* Different philosophies in existing systems on how and what should be communicated;
* Language differences around the world;
* Ability to translate phrases meaningfully;
* Ability to understand and appropriately respond to [[pictograms]].

===GHS label elements {{anchor|Signal word}}===
[[File:GHS-pictogram-silhouette.svg|thumb|The symbol for substances hazardous to the human health as implemented by the GHS.]]

The standardized label elements included in the GHS are:<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 2011 |title=Guidance on Labelling and Packaging in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 |url=http://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/13562/clp_labelling_en.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611145200/http://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/13562/clp_labelling_en.pdf |archive-date=11 June 2016 |access-date=12 January 2024 |website=[[ECHA]]}}</ref>{{Rp|location=|page=12}}
* ''Symbols'' ([[GHS hazard pictograms]]): Convey [[health]], physical and [[Natural environment|environmental]] hazard information, assigned to a GHS hazard class and category. Pictograms include the harmonized hazard symbols plus other graphic elements, such as borders, background patterns or cozers and substances which have target organ toxicity.<ref>{{Cite web|title=GHS pictograms - Transport - UNECE|url=http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/pictograms.html|website=www.unece.org|access-date=2015-06-19|language=en}}</ref> Also, harmful chemicals and irritants are marked with an [[exclamation mark]], replacing the European [[saltire]]. Pictograms will have a black symbol on a white background with a red diamond frame. For transport, pictograms will have the background, symbol and colors currently used in the ''[[UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods]]''. Where a [[transport pictogram]] appears, the GHS pictogram for the same hazard should not appear.
* ''Signal word'': "Danger" or "Warning" will be used to emphasize hazards and indicate the relative level of severity of the hazard, assigned to a GHS hazard class and category. Some lower level hazard categories do not use signal words. Only one signal word corresponding to the class of the most severe hazard should be used on a label.
* ''[[GHS hazard statements]]'': Standard phrases assigned to a [[hazard class]] and category that describe the nature of the hazard. An appropriate statement for each GHS hazard should be included on the label for products possessing more than one hazard.

The additional label elements included in the GHS are:
* ''[[GHS precautionary statements]]'': Measures to minimize or prevent [[adverse effects]]. There are four types of precautionary statements covering: prevention, response in cases of [[Chemical accident|accidental spillage or exposure]], storage, and disposal. The precautionary statements have been linked to each GHS hazard statement and type of hazard.
* ''[[Product identifier]]'' (ingredient disclosure): Name or number used for a hazardous product on a label or in the SDS. The GHS label for a substance should include the [[chemical identity]] of the substance. For mixtures, the label should include the chemical identities of all ingredients that contribute to acute toxicity, skin corrosion or serious eye damage, germ cell mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, skin or respiratory sensitization, or Specific Target Organ Toxicity (STOT), when these hazards appear on the label.
* ''Supplier identification'': The name, address and telephone number should be provided on the label.
* ''Supplemental information'': Non-harmonized information on the container of a hazardous product that is not required or specified under the GHS. Supplemental information may be used to provide further detail that does not contradict or cast doubt on the validity of the standardized hazard information.<ref name=":0" />{{Rp|page=25}}

===GHS label format===
The GHS includes directions for application of the hazard communication elements on the label. In particular, it specifies for each hazard, and for each class within the hazard, what signal word, [[pictogram]], and hazard statement should be used. The GHS hazard pictograms, signal words and hazard statements should be located together on the label. The actual label format or layout is not specified. National authorities may choose to specify where information should appear on the label, or to allow supplier discretion in the placement of GHS information. 

The diamond shape of GHS pictograms resembles the shape of signs mandated for use by the [[United States Department of Transportation]]. To address this, in cases where a pictogram would be required by both the Department of Transportation and the GHS indicating the same hazard, only the Transportation pictogram is to be used.<ref>{{Citation |title=Summary of 29 CFR 1910 |date=2008-10-24 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1201/9781420053852-11 |work=Industrial Safety and Health for People-Oriented Services |pages=117–138 |access-date=2023-11-30 |publisher=CRC Press |doi=10.1201/9781420053852-11 |isbn=978-0-429-14487-5|url-access=subscription }}</ref>

===Safety data sheet===
{{Main|Safety data sheet}}
Safety data sheets or SDS are specifically aimed at use in the workplace. Safety data sheets take precedence over and are intended to replace the previously used material safety data sheets (MSDS),<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 2012 |title=Hazard Communication Standard: Safety Data Sheets |url=https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3514.pdf |access-date=November 30, 2023 |website=U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration}}</ref> which did not have a standard layout and section format. It should provide comprehensive information about the chemical product that allows employers and workers to obtain concise, relevant and accurate information in perspective to the hazards, uses and [[risk management]] of the chemical product in the workplace. Compared to the differences found between manufacturers in MSDS, SDS have specific requirements to include the following headings in the order specified:<ref>{{cite web|url=https://onlineehssupply.com/2017/02/25/understanding-ghs-sds-sections/|title=Understanding The GHS SDS Sections|access-date=2017-02-25|archive-date=2019-12-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191226215841/https://onlineehssupply.com/2017/02/25/understanding-ghs-sds-sections/|url-status=dead}}<!--archive url is also dead--></ref>
{{Div col}}
# Identification
# Hazard(s) identification
# Composition/ information on ingredients
# [[First-aid]] measures
# Fire-fighting measures
# [[Chemical accidents|Accidental release measures]]
# Handling and storage
# Exposure control/ personal protection
# Physical and chemical properties
# [[Chemical stability]] and [[reactivity (chemistry)|reactivity]]
# Toxicological information
# Ecological information
# Disposal considerations
# Transport information
# Regulatory information
# Other information
{{Div col end}}
The primary difference between the GHS and previous international industry recommendations is that sections 2 and 3 have been reversed in order. The GHS SDS headings, sequence, and content are similar to the [[International Organization for Standardization|ISO]], [[European Union]] and [[ANSI]] MSDS/SDS requirements. A table comparing the content and format of a MSDS/SDS versus the GHS SDS is provided in Appendix A of the U.S. [[Occupational Safety and Health Administration]] (OSHA) GHS guidance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals - GHS |url=https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghs.html#App |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070702005153/http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghs.html#App |archive-date=2007-07-02 |access-date=2015-06-18 |website=www.osha.gov |at=Appendix A |language=en}}</ref>

==Training==
Current training procedures for [[Hazard Communication|hazard communication]] in the United States are more detailed than the GHS training recommendations.<ref name="OSHA GHS Guide"/> Training is a key component of the overall GHS approach. Employees and [[emergency responders]] must be trained on all program elements, though there has been confusion among these groups of workers in the implementation process regarding which training elements have changed and are required to maintain [[regulatory compliance]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Koshy |first1=Koshy |last2=Presutti |first2=Michael |last3=Rosen |first3=Mitchel A. |date=2015-03-01 |title=Implementing the Hazard Communication Standard final rule: Lessons learned |url=https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1016/j.jchas.2014.10.002 |journal=Journal of Chemical Health & Safety |language=en |volume=22 |issue=2 |pages=23–31 |doi=10.1016/j.jchas.2014.10.002 |issn=1871-5532|url-access=subscription }}</ref> 

==Implementation==
The [[United Nations]] goal was for broad international adoption of the system, and as of 2017, the GHS had been adopted to varying degrees in many major countries. Smaller economies continue to develop regulations to implement the GHS throughout the 2020s.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 2023 |title=GHS implementation by country |url=https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2023-11/GHS%20implementation%20by%20country_2023-11.pdf |access-date=12 January 2024 |website=unece.org}}</ref> 
[[File:GHS_pictogram_on_back_of_Axe_botte.jpg|thumb|A flammable warning symbol on the back of a Lynx deodorant spray.]]

===GHS adoption by country===
<!-- add in alphanumeric order --> 
*Australia: In 2012, adopted regulation for GHS implementation, setting January 1, 2017 as the GHS implementation deadline.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hazardous chemicals|url=http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/SWA/SAFETYINYOURWORKPLACE/HAZARDOUSSUBSTANCESANDDANGEROUSGOODS/Pages/HazardousSubstancesAndDangerousGoods.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121116013335/http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/SWA/SAFETYINYOURWORKPLACE/HAZARDOUSSUBSTANCESANDDANGEROUSGOODS/Pages/HazardousSubstancesAndDangerousGoods.aspx|archive-date=2012-11-16|url-status=dead|language=en}}</ref>
*Brazil: Established an implementation deadline of February 2011 for substances and June 2015 for mixtures.<ref>{{cite web|title=Implementation of GHS in Brazil|url=http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/trans/doc/2011/dgac10c4/UN-SCEGHS-21-INF22e.pdf|access-date=2023-11-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016055256/http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/trans/doc/2011/dgac10c4/UN-SCEGHS-21-INF22e.pdf|archive-date=2013-10-16|url-status=live|language=en}}</ref>
*Canada: GHS was incorporated into [[Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System|WHMIS 2015]] as of February 2015.<ref>{{cite web|title=WHMIS Transition|url=https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/occupational-health-safety/workplace-hazardous-materials-information-system/whmis-2015.html|url-status=dead|language=en|access-date=2018-11-29|archive-date=2018-11-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181129225229/https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/occupational-health-safety/workplace-hazardous-materials-information-system/whmis-2015.html}}</ref> In 2023 the WHMIS requirements were updated to align with the 7th revised edition and certain provisions of the 8th revised edition of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 27, 2023 |title=Amendments to the Hazardous Products Regulations |url=https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/occupational-health-safety/workplace-hazardous-materials-information-system/amendments-hazardous-products-regulations.html |access-date=August 15, 2024 |website=[[Government of Canada]]}}</ref>
*China: Established implementation deadline of December 1, 2011.<ref name=ckj>{{cite web|title=GHS in China, Korea and Japan|url=http://www.cirs-reach.com/GHS_in_China_Korea_and_Japan.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160413081053/http://www.cirs-reach.com/GHS_in_China_Korea_and_Japan.html|archive-date=2016-04-13|url-status=live|language=en}}</ref>
*Colombia: Following the issuance of Resolution 0773/2021 on April 9, 2021, Colombia enforced the implementation of the GHS, with deadlines taking effect April 7, 2023 for pure substances, with mixtures following the same protocols the following year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wen |first=Theory |date=20 April 2023 |title=Colombia Enforces GHS Implementation in Workplace |url=https://chemical.chemlinked.com/news/chemical-news/colombia-enforces-ghs-implementation-in-workplace |access-date=12 January 2024 |website=ChemLinked}}</ref>
*European Union: The deadline for substance classification was December 1, 2010 and for mixtures it was June 1, 2015, per regulation for GHS implementation on December 31, 2008.<ref>{{cite web|title=CLP/GHS - Classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures|url=http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/chemicals/classification/index_en.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414144231/http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/chemicals/classification/index_en.htm|archive-date=2012-04-14|url-status=dead|publisher=European Commission|language=en}}</ref>
*Japan: Established deadline of December 31, 2010 for products containing one of 640 designated substances.<ref name=ckj/>
*South Korea: Established the GHS implementation deadline of July 1, 2013.<ref name=ckj/>
*Malaysia: Deadline for substance and mixture was April 17, 2015 per its Industry Code of Practice on Chemicals Classification and Hazard Communication (ICOP) on 16 April 2014.<ref>{{cite web|title=GHS in Malaysia|url=http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Malaysia/GHS_in_Malaysia_SDS_label.html|access-date=2023-11-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225114015/http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Malaysia/GHS_in_Malaysia_SDS_label.html|archive-date=2016-12-25|url-status=live|language=en}}</ref>
*Mexico: GHS has been incorporated into the Official Mexican Standard as of 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://dof.gob.mx/nota_detalle.php?codigo=5411121&fecha=09/10/2015|title=Diario Oficial de la Federación|date=2015|website=Diario Oficial de la Federación|language=es}}</ref>
*Pakistan: Country does not have a single streamlined system for chemical labeling, although there are many rules in place. The Pakistani government has requested assistance in developing future regulations to implement GHS.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nexreg.com/label-services/pakistan-industrial-label-review|title=Pakistan Industrial Label Review Nexreg|website=www.nexreg.com|language=en|access-date=2017-10-18|url-status=dead|archive-date=2017-10-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171018134204/http://www.nexreg.com/label-services/pakistan-industrial-label-review}}</ref>
*Philippines: The deadline for substances and mixtures was March 14, 2015, per Guidelines for the Implementation of GHS in Chemical Safety Program in the Workplace in 2014.<ref>{{Citation|title=GHS Implementation in Philippines|url=http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Philippine/GHS_in_Philippines_SDS_label.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915021638/http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Philippine/GHS_in_Philippines_SDS_label.html|archive-date=2016-09-15|url-status=live|language=en|date = 2016|work = ChemSafetyPRO}}</ref>
*Russian Federation: GHS was approved for optional use as of August 2014. Manufacturers may continue using non-GHS Russian labels through 2021, after which compliance with the system is compulsory.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Russia/GHS_in_Russia.html|title=GHS in Russia|website=www.chemsafetypro.com|language=en|access-date=2017-10-18}}</ref>
*Taiwan: Full GHS implementation was scheduled for 2016 for all hazardous chemicals with physical and health hazards.<ref>{{cite web|title=GHS in Taiwan|url=http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Taiwan/GHS_in_Taiwan_SDS_label.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915060850/http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Taiwan/GHS_in_Taiwan_SDS_label.html|access-date=2023-11-13|archive-date=2016-09-15|url-status=live|language=en}}</ref>
*Thailand: The deadline for substances was March 13, 2013. The deadline for mixtures was March 13, 2017.<ref>{{cite web|title=GHS in Thailand|url=https://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Thailand/GHS_in_Thailand_SDS_label.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225103212/http://chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Thailand/GHS_in_Thailand_SDS_label.html|access-date=2023-11-13|archive-date=2016-12-25|url-status=live|language=en}}</ref>
*Turkey: Published Turkish CLP regulation and SDS regulation in 2013 and 2014 respectively. The deadline for substance classification was June 1, 2015, for mixtures, it was June 1, 2016.<ref>{{cite web|title=GHS in Turkey|url=http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Turkey/GHS_in_Turkey_SDS_label.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160807190100/http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Turkey/GHS_in_Turkey_SDS_label.html|archive-date=2016-08-07|url-status=live|language=en}}</ref>
*United Kingdom: Implemented under EU directive by REACH regulations. Post-Brexit, all EU classification has been retained as GB mandatory classification and labelling.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The GB CLP Regulation - HSE |url=https://www.hse.gov.uk/chemical-classification/legal/clp-regulation.htm |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=www.hse.gov.uk}}</ref> 
*United States: GHS compliant labels and SDSs are required for many applications including laboratory chemicals, commercial cleaning agents, and other workplace cases regulated by previous US Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) standards.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.jjkeller.com/learn/hazard-communication-hazcom-ghs-faqs|title=FAQs on Hazard Communication Standard, GHS Labels, Safety Data Sheets, HazCom Training|website=www.jjkeller.com|language=en|access-date=2017-10-18}}</ref> First widespread implementation set by OSHA was on March 26, 2012, requiring manufacturers to adopt the standard by June 1, 2015, and product distributors to adopt the standard by December 1, 2015. Workers had to be trained by December 1, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hazard Communication|url=https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161214050840/https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html|access-date=2023-11-13|archive-date=2016-12-14|url-status=live|publisher=OSHA|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Hazard Communication System Final Rule - Fact Sheet|url=https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/HCSFactsheet.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161129063421/https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/HCSFactsheet.html|archive-date=2016-11-29|url-status=dead|publisher=OSHA|language=en}}</ref> In the US, GHS labels are not required on most hazardous consumer grade products (ex. laundry detergent) however some manufacturers which also sell the same product in Canada or Europe include GHS compliant warnings on these products too. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission is not opposed to this and has been evaluating the possibility of incorporating elements of GHS into future consumer regulations.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.cpsc.gov/content/policy-of-the-us-consumer-product-safety-commission-on-the-globally-harmonized-system-of|title=Policy of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS)|date=2017-03-31|work=CPSC.gov|access-date=2017-10-18|language=en}}</ref>
*Uruguay: regulation approved in 2011, setting December 31, 2012 as deadline for pure substances and December 31, 2017, for compounds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.impo.com.uy/bases/decretos/346-2011|title=MODIFICACION DEL DECRETO 307/009. ETIQUETADO DE PRODUCTOS QUIMICOS. SISTEMA GLOBALMENTE ARMONIZADO|publisher=IMPO|date=13 October 2011|access-date=10 June 2018|language=es}}</ref>
*Vietnam: The deadline for substances was March 30, 2014. The deadline for mixtures was March 30, 2016.<ref>{{cite web|title=GHS Implementation in Vietnam|date=2016-01-05|url=http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Vietnam/GHS_in_Vietnam_SDS_label.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225103632/http://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Vietnam/GHS_in_Vietnam_SDS_label.html|access-date=2023-11-13|archive-date=2016-12-25|url-status=live|language=en}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[GHS hazard pictograms]]
* [[ISO 7010]]
* [[National Fire Protection Association|NFPA]]
* [[Toxicity category rating]]
* [[UN number]]
* [[Warning label]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==Bibliography==
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* {{citation|publisher=Occupational Health and Safety Administration|year=2006|title=A Guide to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS)|access-date=July 13, 2007|url=https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghs.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070702005153/http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghs.html|archive-date=July 2, 2007|language=en}}
* {{citation|url=http://ehstoday.com/columns/ehs_imp_66285/|author=Smith, Sandy|year=2007|title=GHS: A Short Acronym for a Big Idea|journal=Occupational Hazards|volume=69|issue=5|page=6|language=en}}
* {{citation|publisher=United Nations Economic Commission for Europe|year=2007|title=Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)|access-date=July 13, 2007|url=http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_welcome_e.html|language=en}}

==External links==
{{commons category|GHS pictograms}}
* [https://unece.org/about-ghs About the GHS]
* [https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2021-09/GHS_Rev9E_0.pdf Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) - Ninth revised edition]

[[Category:Chemical safety]]
[[Category:Chemical classification]]
[[Category:Globally Harmonized System]]
[[Category:Hazard analysis]]
[[Category:International standards]]