GHS Implementation in Brazil

Sistema Globalmente Harmonizado - Regulatory Framework and Requirements

Overview

Brazil has implemented the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) through comprehensive regulations covering workplace chemicals, consumer products, and pesticides. The implementation is coordinated by multiple agencies ensuring chemical safety across all sectors.

Implementation Timeline

Regulatory Authorities

Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE)

  • Workplace chemical safety
  • NR-26 regulatory standard
  • Occupational health protection
  • Labor inspection and enforcement

Brazilian Institute of Environment (IBAMA)

  • Pesticide registration and control
  • Environmental protection
  • Chemical import/export licensing
  • Environmental impact evaluation

National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA)

  • Consumer product safety
  • Pharmaceutical regulation
  • Cosmetic and sanitizer oversight
  • Health risk evaluation

Regulatory Framework

Key Legislation

Brazil's GHS implementation involves multiple regulatory instruments across different government agencies and sectors.

NR-26 - Regulatory Standard for Safety Signs

  • Scope: Workplace chemical labelling and signage
  • Requirements: GHS-compliant labels and SDS
  • Application: All hazardous chemicals in workplaces
  • Enforcement: Ministry of Labor and Employment

NBR 14725 - Brazilian Technical Standard

  • Part 1: Terminology and definitions
  • Part 2: Classification system
  • Part 3: Labelling requirements
  • Part 4: Safety data sheet format

Law 7.802/1989 - Pesticide Law

  • Pesticide registration and classification
  • GHS-based labelling requirements
  • Environmental and health protection
  • Import and export controls

Classification and Labelling Requirements

Mandatory Requirements

All hazardous chemicals in Brazil must comply with GHS classification and labelling standards according to sector-specific regulations.

Classification Criteria

  • Physical Hazards: 16 hazard classes following GHS Rev. 7
  • Health Hazards: 10 hazard classes including acute and chronic effects
  • Environmental Hazards: Aquatic toxicity and ozone depletion
  • Additional Classes: Brazil-specific hazard categories

Labelling Elements (Portuguese Language)

  • Product Identifier: Chemical name and CAS number
  • Signal Words: "PERIGO" (Danger) or "ATENÇÃO" (Warning)
  • Hazard Pictograms: Standard GHS symbols
  • Hazard Statements: H-phrases in Portuguese
  • Precautionary Statements: P-phrases in Portuguese
  • Supplier Information: Company name and emergency contact

Safety Data Sheet (FISPQ) Requirements

Ficha de Informações de Segurança de Produtos Químicos

Brazilian SDS (FISPQ) must follow the 16-section GHS format with specific local requirements and Portuguese language.

Key FISPQ Requirements

  • Language: Portuguese language mandatory
  • Format: 16-section GHS structure
  • Updates: Review every 5 years minimum
  • Distribution: Available to workers and emergency responders
  • Validation: Technical responsibility required

Sector-Specific Requirements

  • Workplace Chemicals: NR-26 compliance
  • Pesticides: IBAMA registration data
  • Consumer Products: ANVISA health information
  • Transport: UN classification data

Compliance and Enforcement

Enforcement Framework

Multiple agencies enforce GHS compliance with significant penalties for non-compliance across different sectors.

Enforcement Measures

  • Labor Inspections: Workplace compliance audits
  • Product Recalls: Non-compliant product removal
  • Administrative Fines: Monetary penalties
  • Criminal Liability: Serious violations prosecution
  • Import Restrictions: Non-compliant product blocking

Penalty Structure

  • Minor Violations: R$ 1,000 - R$ 10,000
  • Serious Violations: R$ 10,000 - R$ 100,000
  • Grave Violations: R$ 100,000 - R$ 1,000,000
  • Repeat Offenses: Double penalties

Resources and Support