Detailed Overview of GHS Hazard Classification

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is an internationally agreed standard managed by the United Nations. It aims to ensure consistent and clear communication of chemical hazards worldwide. Here is a detailed overview of the GHS hazard classification:

Physical Hazards

1.Explosives: Chemicals that pose an explosion hazard.

2.Flammable Gases: Gases that are flammable under standard conditions.

3.Flammable Aerosols: Sprays containing flammable components.

4.Oxidizing Gases: Gases that can promote combustion.

5.Gases Under Pressure: Gases stored under high pressure, including compressed, liquefied, and dissolved gases.

6.Flammable Liquids: Liquids with low flash points that ignite easily.

7.Flammable Solids: Solids that are easily ignitable.

8.Self-Reactive Substances and Mixtures: Substances that may undergo a strong exothermic reaction under certain conditions.

9.Pyrophoric Liquids: Liquids that can ignite spontaneously when exposed to air.

10.Pyrophoric Solids: Solids that can ignite spontaneously when exposed to air.

11.Self-Heating Substances and Mixtures: Substances that can self-heat when exposed to air.

12.Substances and Mixtures which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases: Substances that release flammable gases upon contact with water.

13.Oxidizing Liquids: Liquids that can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials.

14.Oxidizing Solids: Solids that can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials.

15.Organic Peroxides: Substances that contain a bivalent -O-O- structure and may pose an explosion or strong oxidizing hazard.

16.Corrosive to Metals: Chemicals that can corrode metals.

Health Hazards

1.Acute Toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation): Chemicals that cause toxic effects after a short-term exposure.

2.Skin Corrosion/Irritation: Substances that cause skin corrosion or irritation.

3.Serious Eye Damage/Eye Irritation: Substances that cause serious eye damage or irritation.

4.Respiratory or Skin Sensitization: Substances that can cause allergic reactions in the respiratory system or on the skin.

5.Germ Cell Mutagenicity: Substances that can cause genetic mutations.

6.Carcinogenicity: Substances that can cause cancer.

7.Reproductive Toxicity: Substances that can adversely affect the reproductive system.

8.Specific Target Organ Toxicity – Single Exposure (STOT-SE): Substances that cause toxicity to specific organs after a single exposure.

9.Specific Target Organ Toxicity – Repeated Exposure (STOT-RE): Substances that cause toxicity to specific organs after prolonged or repeated exposure.

10.Aspiration Hazard: Substances that can cause harm if inhaled into the lungs.

Environmental Hazards

1.Hazardous to the Aquatic Environment (acute and chronic): Substances that are toxic to aquatic life.

2.Hazardous to the Ozone Layer: Substances that can cause harm to the ozone layer.

GHS Labels

Each hazard class is associated with specific label elements, including:

Pictograms: Graphic symbols representing the hazard (e.g., flame, skull and crossbones, exclamation mark).

Signal Words: "Danger" or "Warning" to indicate the relative severity of the hazard.

Hazard Statements: Standard phrases describing the nature and degree of the hazard (e.g., "Causes skin irritation").

Precautionary Statements: Instructions on how to minimize or prevent adverse effects from exposure (e.g., "Wear protective gloves").

GHS Implementation

To ensure compliance, companies must:

Classify chemicals according to GHS criteria.

Label products with appropriate GHS elements.

Communicate hazards through Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

Train employees on the identification and handling of hazardous materials.

Importance of GHS

The GHS classification system provides numerous benefits, including:

Enhanced Protection: Improved understanding and communication of chemical hazards lead to safer handling and use.

Consistency: Uniform standards facilitate global trade and regulatory compliance.

Efficiency: Reduces the need for multiple classification systems, streamlining processes for multinational companies.

Implementing GHS standards ensures the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and the environment while fostering international trade and regulatory cooperation.