GHS

GHS, the Globally Harmonised System for Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, has been agreed internationally at the United Nations (UN). Over time it will become the standard for classification and labelling globally and it is likely that the EU will lead the way. It was anticipated that the GHS would be implemented in the EU at the same time as REACH but this will now no longer be the case. The European Commission consulted on a draft implementation text in 2006 [ http://ec.europa.eu/.../ghs_consultation_en.htm ] and the results of this consultation [ http://ec.europa.eu/.../Results_Internet_Consultation.pdf ] and other legal issues are now being considered by the Commission. A proposal from the Commission for implementation can be expected towards the middle of 2007.

The scope of GHS is even wider than REACH and will effect all those that market chemicals as well as those caught by downstream legislation (over 30 pieces of legislation are affected) that refers to classification and labelling.

PTK can:

• explain GHS and what it means for you.
• advise on the possible implications of GHS and the various options available.
• help you to influence the various EU institutions to help ensure that GHS is implemented as efficiently and effectively as possible.
• advise you on how to influence the international bodies (i.e. UN, OECD) that are responsible for the on-going development of GHS.