Globally harmonized system of classification and labeling of chemicals *

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) is an internationally agreed-upon system, created by the United Nations beginning in 1992. It was designed to replace the various classification and labeling standards used in different countries using consistent criteria at a global level. It supersedes the relevant European Union system, which has implemented the United Nations' GHS into EU law as the CLP Regulation and United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. The GHS was developed beginning at the United Nations Rio Conference in 1992, when the International Labor Organization (ILO), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), various governments, and other stakeholders met at a United Nations conference. The GHS was designed as one universal standard for all countries to follow and to replace all the diverse classification systems; however, it is not compulsory under UN law.