GHS - Global Harmonized System – New classification system for chemicals – Supply labelling. - Part 1

Anne Margrethe Nes, Jotun A/S, Norway

Chemicals, through the different steps from their production to their handling, transport and use, are a real danger for human health and the environment. The aim of introducing GHS world wide is to harmonize classification of chemicals, both for supply and transport. This will make import and export with chemicals world wide easier regarding knowing the hazard. GHS addresses classification of chemicals by types of hazard and proposes harmonized hazard communication elements, including labels and safety data sheets. It aims at ensuring that information on physical hazards and toxicity from chemicals be available in order to enhance the protection of human health and the environment during the handling, transport and use of these chemicals. The GHS also provides a basis for harmonization of rules and regulations on chemicals at national, regional and worldwide level, an important factor also for trade facilitation. The GHS proposal is a guidance. The regulation is coordinated by UNECE (United Nations Economic Commisions for Europe. This is based on several building blocks for health, environment and physical hazards. The different countries must implement this as a regulation.

Many countries has already implemented GHS. In Europe the GHS is implemented as a regulation called CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging). For supply labelling the symbols and text and calculation methods are different from today labelling. The implementation scheme of GHS classification in EU, respectively substances and mixtures are defined. Challenges for the industry implies conversion from todays classification system to the new GHS system, new calculations methods, need of toxicological data, new GHS labels together with internal and external training.