Globally Harmonized System for Chemical Classification

Why This Course

As global industries continue to use a wide range of chemicals, ensuring consistent and effective hazard communication is essential for protecting people, facilities, and the environment. The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) provides a unified framework for classifying chemicals and communicating hazards through standardized labels and safety data sheets.

The GHS Chemical Classification & Labeling Program is a comprehensive 5-day course designed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to apply GHS principles confidently. Through hands-on classification exercises, label development workshops, and interactive SDS authoring activities, attendees will learn how to implement GHS effectively within their organizations.

What You’ll Learn and Practice

By completing this program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the purpose, structure, and key components of the Globally Harmonized System
• Apply GHS criteria to classify physical, health, and environmental hazards
• Develop GHS-compliant labels and safety data sheets (SDS)
• Integrate GHS requirements into workplace hazard communication programs
• Use GHS information to support safe chemical handling and risk management

The Program Flow

Day 1 – Introduction to GHS

• Global overview and objectives of the GHS framework
• Principles of hazard classification and standardized communication
• Physical hazard classification: flammability, explosivity, oxidizing properties
• Health hazard classification: toxicity, sensitization, carcinogenicity, etc.

Day 2 – Environmental Hazards & Mixture Classification

• Environmental hazard categories and classification criteria
• Principles for evaluating aquatic toxicity and persistence
• Methods for classifying chemical mixtures
• Bridging principles, calculation methods, and step-by-step classification exercises

Day 3 – GHS Labeling Requirements

• Mandatory label elements and formatting standards
• Pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and precautionary statements
• Supplemental information and workplace-specific requirements
• Workshop: Designing and producing fully compliant GHS labels

Day 4 – Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

• Structure and purpose of the 16-section SDS format
• Information requirements for each SDS section
• Best practices for SDS authoring and accuracy
• Hands-on exercise: Drafting a complete SDS from classification data

Day 5 – GHS Implementation & Communication

• Integrating GHS into workplace hazard communication and HSE programs
• Employee training and competency requirements
• Transition and compliance management across global jurisdictions
• Case studies, group discussions, and practical problem-solving

Practical Wins for Participants

Participants will return equipped to:

• Accurately classify chemicals using GHS physical, health, and environmental criteria
• Create compliant, professional GHS labels and SDS documents
• Build or improve workplace hazard communication programs
• Enhance chemical safety practices through proper interpretation of GHS information

Organizational Impact

Organizations benefit through:

• Improved safety culture and reduced chemical-related incidents
• Stronger compliance with global regulatory requirements
• Streamlined hazard communication and documentation processes
• Enhanced worker training and understanding of chemical hazards

Training Methodology

This program integrates:

• Real-world classification and labeling exercises
• Interactive workshops and hands-on SDS preparation
• Case studies involving chemical storage, transport, and workplace risk
• Expert-led guidance on global GHS implementation trends

Beyond the Course

Participants return ready to:

• Lead GHS implementation projects within their organizations
• Improve SDS and labeling systems for enhanced compliance
• Support HSE teams in chemical safety initiatives
• Contribute to safer and more efficient chemical management programs