What Is The GHS? - The GHS is an acronym for The Globally Harmonized System of Classification & Labelling of Chemicals. It is a rational & comprehensive approach to identifying hazards of chemical, and providing information on these hazards & associated protective measures to those who use or may be exposed to chemicals.
The GHS includes hamonized criteria for physical, health & environmental hazard. These internationally developed criteria are used to evaluate the hazards of both substances & mixtures. It also provides a basis for risk management, safety training and health promotion.
Benefit of GHS
To Companies:
- Increase in efficiency and reduced costs to comply with hazard communication regulations.
- Improved credibility of the chemical industry.
- Facilitate international trade in chemicals.
- Enhance international competitiveness of the chemical industry.
To Workers and the Public:
- Greater awareness of hazards can result in changed behaviour resulting in safer use of chemicals in the workplace and for consumers.
- Reduction of laboratory testing on animals
- Enhance the protection of human health and the environment by providing an internationally comprehensible system.
- Improved protection of workers and the public from chemical hazards.
For more information on GHS, visit :
- U.N. Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and on the Globally Harmonized System of Classification & Labelling of Chemicals, www.unece.org/trans/danger
- OECD's Program on Harmonization of Classification and Labelling, www.oecd.orglenv/classify
- International Labour Organisation, www.ilo.orgJpublic/englishlprotection/safework/ghs
