Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals

The Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals or GHS is set to replace the various different labeling standards for chemicals used in different countries. Its development began at the United Nations Rio summit in 1992, when ILO, OECD and various governments and stakeholders came together at the United Nations. It supersedes the relevant European Union and United States standards.

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The new carcinogen symbol

GHS includes a set of hazard symbols that replaces the European orange-colored hazard symbols and American equivalents. The symbols are similar to the EU symbols, with exceptions, but the symbols are diamond-shaped, have a red border, and the pictogram is black on a white background. A new hazard symbol featuring a white sprawling mass within a bust of a human is introduced. It is used for carcinogens, mutagens, sensitizers and substances which have target organ toxicity. These insidious hazards are now separated from acute toxicity. Also, harmful chemicals and irritants are marked with an exclamation mark, replacing the European saltire. Interestingly, the definition of "corrosive" now includes "corrosive to metal". Current labels for transport purposes are not changed.

External links

1. Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals - United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
2. "Implementing the GHS"-conference, 30 and 31 October 2006 (Germany)
3. GHS Strategic Planning - Nexreg Compliance
4. GHS - weblinks
5. GHS pictogram gallery