Introduction to GHS

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), commonly referred to as the “Purple Book,” was published by the United Nations in 2003. It serves as a framework for the consistent classification and labeling of chemicals worldwide. Since its first revision in 2005, GHS has been updated biennially, with the current version being the 10th revision released in 2023.

In response to the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development, countries were encouraged to adopt GHS by 2008. Major economies have since implemented national regulations in alignment with the UN GHS, such as:

• EU: CLP Regulation (since 2009)

• China: Chinese GHS (since 2011)

• USA: Hazard Communication Standard (HCS, since 2012)

Understanding SDS and MSDS

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a vital document providing detailed information on the properties, hazards, handling, storage, and transport of a chemical substance or mixture. While SDS is the internationally recognized term, some countries still refer to it as MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet). Regardless of the name, SDS/MSDS remains a key tool for hazard communication throughout the supply chain.

Country-Specific GHS Implementation & Requirements

China

China’s GHS system is based on a comprehensive regulatory framework that includes:

• Classification Standards: GB 30000.1-2024 (effective Aug 1, 2025), GB 30000.2–29-2013

• Labeling: GB 15258-2009

• SDS Requirements: GB/T 16483-2008, GB/T 17519-2013

• Packaging: GB 190-2009

Obligations in China:

• SDS and label preparation for hazardous chemicals

• Hazardous chemical registration with NRCC

• Applicable to all listed hazardous substances or chemicals with known hazard data

European Union

The EU's CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 is aligned with GHS and supplements REACH. Key dates include:

• 2010: Full application for substances

• 2015: Full application for mixtures

EU SDS Updates:

All SDSs for EU markets must comply with Regulation (EU) 2020/878, effective from January 1, 2023. Non-compliant SDSs can result in market restrictions, penalties, or product confiscation.

United States

Under OSHA’s HCS 2012, the US has adopted GHS with some unique classifications retained, such as:

• Simple asphyxiants

• Combustible dusts

• Pyrophoric gases

The US GHS does not include aquatic or ozone layer hazards.

GHS Comparison: China vs. EU vs. US

Our Global GHS/SDS/Label Services

We provide comprehensive compliance services across major GHS jurisdictions, including:

• SDS Authoring & Translation (multi-language, including all EU official languages)

• SDS Review & Updating

• Label Design & Verification

• GHS/CLP/China SDS Training

• Only Representative (OR) Services (EU CLP, Korea KOSHA)

• Regulatory Submissions:

• EU C&L Notification

• China NRCC registration

• PCN submission (EU)

• Korea MSDS submission

• Global Emergency Number Support

Supported Jurisdictions

• EU: CLP Regulation, REACH, EU 2020/878

• China: GB/T standards

• USA: Hazard Communication Standard

• Canada: Hazardous Products Regulations

• Japan: JIS Z 7252/7253:2019

• South Korea: MOEL No. 2023-9

• Brazil: NBR 14725

• Mexico: NOM-018-STPS-2015

• Southeast Asia: Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore

• Others: Australia, New Zealand, Turkey, Russia, GCC countries, and more

Why Choose REACH24H?

• Global Regulatory Expertise: 10+ years of experience with GHS regulations worldwide

• Robust Technical Team: Experts in toxicology, chemistry, environmental science, and regulatory affairs

• Proven Track Record: Over 60,000 SDS/labels completed with high client satisfaction

• Efficient Multilingual Support: Native fluency in English, Japanese, Korean, and more

• Strong Communication with Authorities: Long-standing cooperation with regulatory agencies and experts