UN GHS - Globally Harmonized System

United Nations Framework for Chemical Classification and Labelling

Overview

The United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (UN GHS) is the international framework that provides the foundation for chemical safety regulations worldwide. Developed under UN auspices, GHS harmonizes chemical hazard communication to protect human health and the environment globally.

Development Timeline

UN Organizations and Bodies

UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)

  • GHS development and maintenance
  • Committee of Experts on Transport of Dangerous Goods and GHS
  • Sub-Committee of Experts on GHS
  • Purple Book publication and updates

Inter-Organization Programme (IOMC)

  • Inter-agency coordination
  • Technical guidance development
  • Capacity building support
  • Implementation assistance

Participating Organizations

  • International Labour Organization (ILO)
  • Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
  • United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
  • World Health Organization (WHO)

GHS Structure and Components

Comprehensive Framework

The UN GHS provides a complete framework for chemical hazard classification, labelling, and safety data sheets that countries can adopt and adapt to their national circumstances.

Hazard Classification System

  • Physical Hazards: 17 hazard classes covering flammability, explosivity, and reactivity
  • Health Hazards: 10 hazard classes covering acute and chronic health effects
  • Environmental Hazards: 2 hazard classes for aquatic environment protection
  • Additional Hazards: Ozone layer depletion and other specific concerns

Labelling Elements

  • Pictograms: 9 standardized hazard pictograms with red borders
  • Signal Words: "Danger" for severe hazards, "Warning" for less severe
  • Hazard Statements: Standardized H-phrases describing hazards
  • Precautionary Statements: Standardized P-phrases for safe handling

Global Implementation Status

Worldwide Adoption

GHS has been implemented by over 70 countries worldwide, covering the vast majority of global chemical production, trade, and consumption.

Regional Implementation

  • European Union: CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008
  • North America: OSHA HCS (US), WHMIS 2015 (Canada), NOM-018 (Mexico)
  • Asia-Pacific: National implementations in Japan, Korea, China, Australia, ASEAN
  • Other Regions: Brazil, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, and many others

Building Blocks Approach

  • Flexible Implementation: Countries can select relevant GHS elements
  • Phased Approach: Gradual implementation over time
  • Sector-Specific: Different requirements for workplace, consumer, transport
  • National Adaptation: Accommodation of existing regulatory frameworks

UN GHS Purple Book

Authoritative Reference

The UN GHS Purple Book is the official reference document containing the complete GHS framework, updated biennially by the UN Sub-Committee of Experts.

Purple Book Contents

  • Part 1: Introduction, scope, and definitions
  • Part 2: Physical hazards classification criteria
  • Part 3: Health hazards classification criteria
  • Part 4: Environmental hazards classification criteria
  • Part 5: Labelling and safety data sheet requirements
  • Annexes: Technical guidance and implementation examples

Capacity Building and Support

International Cooperation

The UN and partner organizations provide extensive capacity building support to help countries implement GHS effectively.

Support Programs

  • UNITAR: Training programs and technical assistance
  • ILO: Workplace safety implementation guidance
  • OECD: Economic analysis and policy guidance
  • WHO: Health protection and risk assessment

Key Resources