The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

 The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is a system developed by the United Nations that aims to harmonize the classification and labeling of chemicals worldwide. It was created to improve the safety and protection of human health and the environment by providing a standardized approach to the communication of hazard information about chemicals.

The GHS provides a uniform approach to the classification of chemicals based on their physical, health, and environmental hazards. It also includes guidelines for the labeling and safety data sheets (SDSs) of chemicals, ensuring that information about the hazards of chemicals is easily accessible and understandable to workers and consumers around the world.

The GHS includes standardized hazard pictograms, signal words, and hazard statements that are used on product labels and SDSs to convey information about the hazards of a chemical. The hazard pictograms are designed to be easily recognizable and understandable, even across language barriers.

The implementation of the GHS is voluntary, but many countries have adopted the system or have developed their own systems that are based on the GHS. As of 2021, over 70 countries have adopted the GHS, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and China.

The benefits of the GHS include increased safety and protection for workers and consumers, improved trade and commerce by reducing the need for multiple systems of classification and labeling, and a more efficient and effective system for managing chemicals throughout their lifecycle.

In summary, the Globally Harmonized System is an internationally recognized system for the classification and labeling of chemicals that aims to improve the safety and protection of human health and the environment by providing a standardized approach to the communication of hazard information about chemicals.