GHSkriteerien

GHSkriteerien refers to the criteria used in the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). This international system aims to standardize the way chemicals are classified for their hazards and communicated on labels and safety data sheets. The GHS criteria are developed and maintained by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).

The core of the GHS lies in its hazard classes and categories. Hazard classes describe the type of hazard a chemical presents, such as physical hazards (e.g., flammability, explosivity), health hazards (e.g., carcinogenicity, acute toxicity), and environmental hazards (e.g., aquatic toxicity). Within each hazard class, there are specific categories that denote the severity of the hazard. For instance, within the acute toxicity class, there are multiple categories to indicate varying levels of toxicity upon short-term exposure.

The criteria for assigning a chemical to a particular hazard class and category are based on scientific evidence, including data from testing, literature reviews, and expert judgment. These criteria are detailed in the GHS document itself, which is periodically updated. When a chemical meets the established criteria for a specific hazard, it is classified accordingly. This classification then dictates the appropriate hazard pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and precautionary statements that must appear on labels and safety data sheets. The goal is to ensure that information about chemical hazards is consistent and easily understandable across different countries and jurisdictions, thereby improving chemical safety for workers, consumers, and the environment.