GHS Implementation in Colombia

Chemical Safety and Regulatory Framework - Sistema Globalmente Armonizado

Overview

Colombia is implementing GHS through various regulatory frameworks covering workplace chemicals, environmental protection, and industrial safety. As a major oil producer and growing industrial economy, Colombia is developing comprehensive GHS-aligned regulations to ensure worker safety and environmental protection.

Implementation Timeline

Regulatory Authorities

Ministry of Labor

  • Workplace safety regulation
  • Occupational health standards
  • Labor inspection and enforcement
  • Worker protection measures

Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development

  • Environmental protection oversight
  • Chemical discharge control
  • Pollution prevention measures
  • Environmental impact assessment

National Hydrocarbons Agency (ANH)

  • Oil and gas chemical safety
  • Petroleum industry regulation
  • Hydrocarbon operations oversight
  • Environmental compliance

Regulatory Framework

Multi-Sector Coordination

Colombia's GHS implementation involves coordination among multiple ministries with specific sectoral responsibilities, particularly focusing on oil and gas operations.

Resolution 0312 of 2019 - Occupational Safety and Health

  • Scope: Workplace safety and health management
  • Application: All employers and workers
  • GHS Elements: Chemical hazard identification
  • Enforcement: Ministry of Labor

Colombian Technical Standards (NTC)

  • NTC 4435: Chemical classification system
  • NTC 4702: Safety data sheet format
  • NTC 1692: Chemical labelling requirements
  • Petroleum Standards: Oil and gas specific requirements

Oil and Gas Sector Chemical Safety

Petroleum Industry Focus

Colombia's oil and gas sector requires specialized GHS implementation for drilling chemicals, production chemicals, and refinery operations.

Petroleum Chemical Regulations

  • Drilling Fluids: Specialized handling and disposal
  • Production Chemicals: Corrosion inhibitors and biocides
  • Refinery Operations: Process chemical management
  • Environmental Protection: Spill prevention and response

Classification and Labelling Requirements

GHS-Based Classification

Colombia implements GHS classification and labelling requirements through Colombian technical standards with specific adaptations for local conditions.

Labelling Elements (Spanish Language)

  • Product Identifier: Chemical name in Spanish
  • Signal Words: "PELIGRO" (Danger) or "ATENCIÓN" (Warning)
  • Hazard Pictograms: GHS symbols with Spanish text
  • Hazard Statements: H-phrases in Spanish
  • Precautionary Statements: P-phrases in Spanish
  • Supplier Information: Colombian company details

Resources and Support