The Globally Harmonized System for Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) is an international approach to managing chemical hazards that “harmonizes” the criteria for classifying them. The GHS provides harmonized classification criteria for health, physical, and environmental hazards of chemicals, as well as standardized label elements that are assigned to these hazard classes and categories. A standardized order of information for safety data sheets (SDSs) is also provided.
And while the system itself may be global, the way each country adopts the GHS into its existing legislative framework and regulatory requirements can differ.