In a significant move to enhance the safety and standardization of chemicals worldwide, the United Nations’ “Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and on the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals” has approved the tenth revised edition of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS Rev. 10). This revision comes after extensive discussions and deliberations during the eleventh session held on December 9, 2022.

The GHS Rev. 10 introduces crucial amendments aimed at improving the classification and labelling procedures for chemicals.

The following key areas have been addressed in the current edition 

• Classification Procedure for Desensitized Explosives: The revision provides more robust and precise guidelines for the classification of desensitized explosives, ensuring safer handling and transport of these hazardous materials.

• Non-Animal Testing Methods for Health Hazards Classification: To promote ethical practices and advance scientific knowledge, the GHS Rev. 10 encourages the use of non-animal testing methods for classifying health hazards, specifically focusing on skin corrosion/irritation, serious eye damage/irritation, and respiratory or skin sensitization.

• Rationalization of Precautionary Statements: In a bid to enhance user comprehension and improve labelling practitioners’ usability, the revision includes further rationalization of precautionary statements. This will facilitate better understanding and handling of chemicals across different industries.

• Review of Annexes 9 and 10: The GHS Rev. 10 also entails a comprehensive review of annexes 9 and 10 to ensure the alignment of classification strategies, guidance, and tools related to metals and metal compounds. This alignment will be in line with the provisions for long-term aquatic classification toxicity, as specified in chapter 4.1.

The amended version of GHS Rev. 10, which considers all these essential changes, has been published and made available for consultation purposes.

This document is accessible in the six official languages of the United Nations – Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish. This accessibility aims to promote global awareness and compliance with the latest GHS standards.

The GHS Rev. 10 marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to create a unified system for the classification and labelling of chemicals worldwide. By adopting these amendments, the international community demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the safe handling, transport, and use of chemicals while safeguarding human health and the environment.