Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals Services

The production, handling, transport, and use of chemicals pose a potential hazard to human health and the environment. A mandate from the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (known as the Rio Earth Summit), recognized and agreed on the development of a Globally Harmonized System (GHS) on the classification, labeling and safe handling of chemicals. GHS also provides a basis for harmonization of rules and regulations on chemicals at national, regional and worldwide level.

The goal of the Global Harmonized Systems of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) initiative is to globally standardize:

• Criteria for classifying chemicals based on health and environmental hazards
• Hazard communication requirements for material labeling and safety data sheets

Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals Services

Intertek can assess a company's portfolio and based on the countries in which products are to be marketed, will undertake classification and labeling based on first-hand experience of various country implementation plans. In order to ensure clients make a smooth transition to the new legislation, tailored in-house training courses can be provided. 

Intertek offers the following services for GHS compliance: 

• Classification of substances to meet the new requirements set out by the newly adopted Globally Harmonized System
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS) authoring and updating to verify that all requirements are met and that classification of substances have been properly assigned
• Label formulation for compliance with GHS
• Corporate regulatory training
• Regulatory strategy and consulting