Many Countries are Updating to GHS, Rev.7 – Note the Implementation Deadlines

This year, many countries are adapting their legislation to align with the seventh version of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS [Rev. 7]). Companies operating in these countries should update their safety data sheets and product labels in a timely manner according to the new requirements.

What's changing

Changes triggered by the replacement of GHS (Rev. 6) with the subsequent seventh version include:

Hazard class Flam. Gas and other classification criteria
Definition of terms
Labeling requirements, including a new P-phrase

Examples of implementation deadlines

The following countries are affected by the changeover to GHS Rev.7:

Ukraine: As of January 2025 (new introduction of the GHS)
Singapore: As of February 2025
New Zealand: From April 2025 at the latest
Brazil: From July 2025 at the latest
Canada: From December 2025 at the latest
Chile: Different deadlines (2022 - 2027)
USA: Different deadlines (2026 - 2028)

Difference between CLP and GHS

The CLP Regulation is legally binding and directly applicable in the EU member states. However, the GHS system is meant as an offering to UN member states to develop and introduce their own chemicals management system. However, the states are not obliged to implement the system or any parts of it.

Background to GHS

GHS recommendations are updated every two years. The latest version GHS Rev.10 dates from 2023. GHS Rev.11 will be published later this year.

With the GHS system, the international community hopes to achieve a globally uniform level of protection, globally uniform classification and labeling, and harmonization of hazardous substances and dangerous goods legislation. The ultimate goal is simplification of cross-border trade.

Please check whether your documents, such as safety data sheets and labels, comply with the current requirements.

If you have any questions, please contact us at sales@kft.de.