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

Overview

Chemicals, from their production to their handling, transport, and use, can pose a danger for human health and the environment.

Canada has worked with other countries to harmonize existing hazard communication systems on chemicals in order to develop a single, globally harmonized system to address classification of chemicals according to their hazards and communicate the related information through labels and safety data sheets.

After more than a decade of work, the new global system, the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), was adopted by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in July 2003.

This GHS system is now ready for worldwide implementation. Many countries, including Canada, are beginning the task of harmonizing existing regulatory regimes within the GHS framework.

What you'll find here

This section has been designed to provide a single window for Stakeholders who are interested in the process and the progress of GHS implementation in Canada.

The Policy and Programme Services Office at Health Canada's Product Safety Programme serves as the national coordinator for the implementation of GHS in Canada. Contact us for more information or to provide your input on GHS.

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) Implementation in Canada

Help on accessing alternative formats, such as Portable Document Format (PDF), Microsoft Word and Power Point (PPT) files, can be obtained in the alternate format help section.


Where are we now?
Activities for 2008 Status
Technical Consultations underway
Development of Interim Recommendations underway
Consultation with trading partners underway
Consultation on implementation phase-in options to be initiated
Economic analysis - baseline study to be initiated

Next steps to support GHS implementation:

  • Economic analysis (full study)
  • Development of final recommendations
  • Decision Making
  • Draft Regulations
  • Regulatory process
  • Phasing in implementation

Additional Information