Globally Harmonized System for Classification Labeling Understanding the Implementation Challenges Ahead

摘要

The globally harmonized system for classification and labeling (GHS) resulted from discussions at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). Participating governments, including the US government, are expected to implement a "globally harmonized hazard classification and compatible labeling system, including material safety data sheets and easily understandable symbols." In the past, countries with systems that address information needs for chemical products adopted different requirements for hazard definitions as well as information to be included on a label or material safety data sheet. This resulted in negative impacts for worker safety and protection, as well as difficulties for companies that export to various global regions. The GHS was created to provide a global system "...that is able to protect people from the mismanagement of chemicals, classify them according to their hazard and create a labelling system based on universally understandable pictograms." It includes health, physical and environmental hazard criteria for substances and for classification of mixtures. The GHS also requires a specific 16-section safety data sheet. It also includes harmonized pictograms, hazard statements and signal words for clearer, more effective communication of information on chemical product labels.