Japan:
New requirements for SDSs and the labeling of substances

From April 1st of this year, new information requirements for safety data sheets (SDS) and labeling will apply. The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has published detailed information on this.

The legal basis is the Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA). The requirements of GHS Rev. 6 (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, GHS) are authoritative.

Accordingly, the following information, among others, is mandatory on the labels:

the substance name
Classification according to GHS specifications
Harmful effects on human health
Hazard pictograms and warnings
Instructions on how to store and handle substances
Name, address and telephone number of the supplier
Information on stability and reactivity of the substance

And the SDS must state the following, among other things:

CAS number and substance name
Physical and chemical properties of substances
Instructions for suitable protective measures
Information on health hazards, such as respiratory and skin irritation and germ cell mutagenicity
Information on how to proceed in the event of accidents and emergencies, such as leaks
Information on substance concentration or percentage by weight
Recommended use and restrictions on use

We are familiar with the chemical regulations in Japan. Please feel free to contact us at sales@kft.de.