GHS Implementation in Turkey

Chemical Safety and Regulatory Framework - Küresel Uyumlaştırılmış Sistem

Overview

Turkey is implementing GHS through comprehensive regulations covering workplace chemicals, environmental protection, and industrial safety. As a major manufacturing hub bridging Europe and Asia, Turkey is developing GHS-aligned regulations to ensure worker safety and facilitate international trade.

Implementation Timeline

Regulatory Authorities

Ministry of Labor and Social Security

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

Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change

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

Ministry of Industry and Technology

  • Industrial chemical regulation
  • Manufacturing safety standards
  • Technology development oversight
  • Industrial policy coordination

Regulatory Framework

Comprehensive Legal Framework

Turkey's GHS implementation is built on robust legislation covering workplace safety, environmental protection, and industrial development.

Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331

  • Scope: Workplace safety and health
  • Application: All workplaces with employees
  • GHS Elements: Chemical hazard communication
  • Enforcement: Ministry of Labor and Social Security

Chemical Registration Regulation

  • Chemical substance registration system
  • Safety assessment requirements
  • Classification and labelling obligations
  • Supply chain communication

Environmental Law No. 2872

  • Environmental protection framework
  • Chemical discharge regulations
  • Pollution control measures
  • Environmental impact assessment

Classification and Labelling Requirements

GHS-Based Classification

Turkey implements GHS classification and labelling requirements with specific adaptations for national conditions and Turkish language requirements.

Hazard Classification

  • Physical Hazards: 16 classes following GHS principles
  • Health Hazards: 10 classes including acute and chronic effects
  • Environmental Hazards: Aquatic toxicity classification
  • Turkish Specifics: Additional national requirements

Labelling Elements (Turkish Language)

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

Safety Data Sheet Requirements

Güvenlik Bilgi Formu (GBF)

Turkish SDS requirements follow the international 16-section GHS format with specific local adaptations and Turkish language requirements.

Key SDS Requirements

  • Language: Turkish language mandatory
  • Format: 16-section GHS structure
  • Content: Comprehensive safety and hazard information
  • Updates: When new information becomes available
  • Distribution: Provided with chemical supply

Compliance and Enforcement

Multi-Agency Enforcement

Turkey maintains enforcement through multiple agencies with significant penalties for non-compliance.

Penalty Structure

  • Administrative Fines: TL 50,000 - TL 500,000
  • Criminal Penalties: Imprisonment up to 3 years
  • Environmental Violations: Enhanced penalties
  • Repeat Offenses: Increased sanctions

Resources and Support