Following a two-year transition period, the Globally Harmonized System of classification for hazardous chemicals (GHS 7) is now in effect.

What’s new in GHS 7?

GHS 7 introduces several changes to classification, labelling and safety data sheet (SDS) requirements for workplace hazardous chemicals. The key changes between GHS 3 and GHS 7 are:

• new hazard categories and classes for:

• desensitised explosives
• pyrophoric gases
• chemically unstable gases
• non-flammable aerosols

• updated precautionary statements.

In addition to these changes, the definition of ‘hazardous chemical’ under the model WHS laws is being clarified ensure it captures all Category 2 eye irritants.

Manufacturers and importers

From 1 January 2023, manufacturers and importers must use GHS 7 to classify chemicals and prepare chemical labels and safety data sheets (SDS). You do not have to re-label or dispose of any existing products. However, the SDS must comply with GHS 7 from 1 January 2023 even if the label does not.

You are also considered to be a manufacturer or importer of hazardous chemicals if you repackage or re-label hazardous chemical products with your product name.

Suppliers of hazardous chemicals

If you are a supplier of hazardous chemicals, you should only accept stock which is classified, labelled and has a SDS prepared under GHS 7 from 1 January 2023. You must not supply stock manufactured or imported from 1 January 2023 if it’s not classified and labelled under GHS 7.

Users of hazardous chemicals

If you use hazardous chemicals, you should only accept new stock that is manufactured, classified and labelled under GHS 7 if they are manufactured or imported after 1 January 2023.

If the hazardous chemical is manufactured or imported before 1 January 2023, the product can be classified and labelled with either GHS 3 or GHS 7. This is the case even if you receive the product after 1 January 2023.

SDS should be compliant with GHS 7 from 1 January 2023 even if the label is not.

More information

If you manufacture or import hazardous chemicals, Safe Work Australia’s GHS 7 information sheet for manufacturers and importers of hazardous chemicals has more information.

Alternatively, contact the MTA Workplace Relations team on 82912000.