GHS Preparation Checklist and Guidance on How to Upgrade to Higher GHS Version

Currently, many Asia-Pacific economies are implementing, or considering to implement the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). GHS is a system developed by the United Nations (UN) for hazard communication through harmonized provisions for standardized labels and safety data sheets (SDS). This is made to improve workers’ and chemical users’ health and safety, ensure environmental protection, facilitate trade and reduce the need for testing and evaluation of chemicals.

Some economies are considering to upgrade their existing GHS regulation to the latest GHS version. Economies may have challenges for adopting the new version of GHS such as limited capacity and capability, time constraint and insufficient reference on the best practices to adopt or upgrade their GHS regulation.

The objective of this project is composing a comprehensive guidance when GHS is newly adopted or existing GHS regulation(s) is updated. Recommendation or Best Practices or Key Factors to be considered while adopting or upgrading GHS versions and appropriate approaches to be applied to address it, such as:

1. Type of standards/guidelines/regulations that must be developed /compiled/adopted
2. Capacity building (training) plan
3. Communication plan including Public Consultation
4. Identifying key stakeholders to be involved
5. Regulatory impact assessment
6. Transition Period  

The project outcome will give a sustainable advantage to the whole APEC member economies. Since, every time any economy plans to upgrade their GHS regulation, this ‘Preparation Checklists and Guidance’ will assist them based on Best Practices or Key Factors.