GHS (Globally Harmonized System)
An internationally agreed-upon system for classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information through standardized labels and safety data sheets.
Key Facts
- Nine standardized hazard pictograms (red-bordered diamonds)
- Adopted by OSHA in the 2012 HazCom standard revision
- Uniform criteria for classification, labeling, and SDS format
- Improves international chemical safety communication
The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) was adopted by OSHA in the 2012 revision of the Hazard Communication Standard. GHS provides uniform criteria for: hazard classification (physical, health, environmental), label elements (signal words, hazard statements, pictograms, precautionary statements), and Safety Data Sheet format (standardized 16-section format). The nine GHS pictograms (diamond-shaped red-bordered symbols) communicate hazard types at a glance: flame, exclamation mark, health hazard, skull and crossbones, corrosion, exploding bomb, oxidizer, gas cylinder, and environment.
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