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

The latest news, products, services, training and links relating to the GHS regulations.

The Purple Book is the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). It is a recommendation, not a law.

“GHS” is an acronym for Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals.

The GHS is a system for standardizing and harmonizing the classification and labeling of chemicals. It is a logical and comprehensive approach to:

  • Defining health, physical and environmental hazards of chemicals;
  • Creating classification processes that use available data on chemicals for comparison with the defined hazard criteria; and
  • Communicating hazard information, as well as protective measures, on labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

GHS affects hazard communication in the workplace. It does not affect the transportation regulations.

Hazard communication standards are in the OSHA regulations, 29 CFR, part 1910.1200

Hazard communication or “hazcom” affects labeling, safety data sheets and training in the workplace. It deals with ensuring employers teach and provide tools to keep employees safe when working with hazardous products in the workplace.

Publications

Our Self Teach Guidebook and our New GHS Workplace Implementation Manuals contain helpful tools needed to keep employees up-to-date with the most current workplace labeling systems and to help compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard.

GHS Posters and Charts

Our posters and charts clearly explain how GHS is implemented in the workplace and serve as general reminders as well as appealing training aids.

Training Courses

ICC offers GHS HazCom training as live in-person, instructor-led webinars and, interactive online training. Choose your way to train.

GHS Labels

Our pictogram and pure chemical labels are designed specifically to comply with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) in both Canada and the US.