What is GHS? In broader sense it is the new classification system of the UN, the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals. In narrower sense it means the Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (previously: preparations). The regulation - which effects all the countries of the European Community - enters into force on 20 January 2009 and will, after a transitional period, replace the current rules on classification, labelling and packaging of substances (Directive 67/548/EEC) and mixtures (Directive 1999/45/EC). What is its aim? The identification of the hazardous substances and communication of the hazardous properties to the stakeholders with the help of the symbols and sentences can be seen on safety data sheets and labelling. What is its background, what is its relation to REACH? This new Regulation on classification, labelling and packaging ("CLP Regulation") contributes to the GHS aim that the same hazards will be described and labelled in the same way all around the world. By using internationally agreed classification criteria and labelling elements, it is expected to facilitate trade and to contribute towards global efforts to protect humans and the environment from hazardous effects of chemicals. The new act will complement the REACH Regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals. The CLP Regulation enters into force on 20 January 2009 and will, after a transitional period, replace the current rules on classification, labelling and packaging of substances (Directive 67/548/EEC) and mixtures (Directive 1999/45/EC). What are the main features of the Regulation on classification, labelling and packaging? The new act: applies the general principles of the UN GHS, keeps the scope as close as possible to the existing EU system maintains the level of protection achieved in the EU by including EU "left-overs" that are not yet covered by the GHS ensures consistency with transport, takes over the Annex I of Council Directive 67/548/EEC takes over Title XI (Classification & Labelling Inventory) from the REACH Regulation, defines a transitional period during which both the old legislation and the new Regulation will be in place, stays as close as possible to the UN GHS format and terminology, How does it affect the suppliers and users? A new scientific criteria has been used to determine the hazardous properties of the substances: Two new hazard symbols have been introduced: exclamation mark health hazard Gives new design to the existing symbols: From when onwards? The deadline for substance classification according to the new rules will be 30 November 2010 and for mixtures 31 May 2015. Paralelly, the old Directives on classification, labelling and packaging, i.e. Council Directive 67/548/EEC and Directive 1999/45/EC, will be repealed on 1 June 2015. How to apply the new regulation? The new regulation will run primarily on the basis of self-assessment. The European Chemical Agency handed out a guidance called REACH Implementation Project (3.6) which contains a short, downloadable industry-oriented guidance about the recommended GHS regulation. GHS Regulation: Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures, amending and repealing Directives 67/548/EEC and 1999/45/EC, and amending Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 Useful links: The European Commission REACH & GHS information website   follow us on