The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) of the United Nations is a globally harmonized system for the classification of chemicals and their labelling on packaging and in safety data sheets.
To implement this labeling system, the so-called CLP Regulation (Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008) was adopted in Europe and came into force on January 20, 2009. According to this regulation, all substances have to be classified and labeled according to the GHS since December 1, 2012 and all mixtures since June 1, 2015. The criteria of the regulation are intended to identify hazardous chemicals and inform their users of the respective hazards.
When classifying according to the GHS, the CLP Regulation places emphasis on the expert-based process. The hazardousness of a substance or mixture is assessed on the basis of relevant criteria and the substance/mixture is assigned to corresponding hazard classes and hazard categories. While the hazard classes indicate the type of hazard, the hazard categories are used for grading within the classes. There are currently 16 classes for physical hazards, ten for health hazards and two classes for environmental hazards in the EU.
Chemicals are labeled on packaging and in safety data sheets according to their classification. The hazards are visualized by pictograms and supplemented with signal words ("Danger", "Warning"). In addition, hazard statements describe the type and, if applicable, the severity of the hazard. Precautionary statements recommend measures to limit or avoid harmful effects in a standardized form.
Status: December 2015 All information without guarantee.
