GHS - What is GHS?
GHS is the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals. This is an internationally agreed-upon system, created by the United Nations in 1992 and as is being adopted by many countries all over the world. It was designed to replace the various classification and labelling standards used in different countries by using consistent criteria on a global level. It supersedes the relevant system of 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 as the HCS Regulations.
Hank Solutions My Chemical Data software allows datasheets in all 3 standards to be produced from one central datasheet location.
CLP
The CLP Regulation (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) is a European Union regulation from 2008, which aligns the European Union system of classification, labelling and packaging of chemical substances and mixtures to the Globally Harmonised System (GHS). It is expected to facilitate global trade and the harmonised communication of hazard information of chemicals and to promote regulatory efficiency. It complements the 2006 Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Regulation (EC No 1907/2006) and replaces the current system contained in the Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC) and the Dangerous Preparations Directive (1999/45/EC).
For more information please visit the European Chemicals Agency website
HCS
The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is now aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This update to the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) will provide a common and coherent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. This update will also help reduce trade barriers and result in productivity improvements for American businesses that regularly handle, store, and use hazardous chemicals while providing cost savings for American businesses that periodically update safety data sheets and labels for chemicals covered under the hazard communication standard.
For more information please visit the US Occupational Safety & Health Administration website
GHS Hazard Pictograms
