GHS (Globally Harmonized System)

GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) is an international standard that defines uniform criteria for classifying chemical hazards and standardizes label elements and safety data sheet formats.

What Is GHS?

The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) was developed by the United Nations to create a single, worldwide approach to chemical hazard classification and communication. Before GHS, different countries used incompatible systems, creating confusion in international trade and worker protection.

Key GHS Elements

  • Hazard classification criteria: Standardized categories for physical, health and environmental hazards.
  • Label elements: Pictograms, signal words (Danger/Warning), hazard statements (H-codes) and precautionary statements (P-codes).
  • Safety Data Sheet format: The standardized 16-section SDS format.

GHS Pictograms

GHS uses nine standardized pictograms in red diamond-bordered frames: flame, flame over circle, exploding bomb, gas cylinder, corrosion, skull and crossbones, exclamation mark, health hazard and environment.

GHS in Canada

Canada adopted GHS through WHMIS 2015, aligning the Hazardous Products Act and Hazardous Products Regulations with GHS classification criteria and communication elements.

GHS Compliance Tools

Make Safety Easy helps you manage GHS-compliant SDS libraries, track worker WHMIS/GHS training and ensure all workplace labels meet current standards.

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