The seventh edition of the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS 7.0) is essential for the lubricant additives industry. These updates enhance safety, ensure compliance, and align with international standards—crucial for staying competitive.
Key Updates in GHS 7.0
- Refined Criteria for Aerosols and Pressurised Chemicals: GHS 7.0 offers clearer guidelines for classifying aerosols and chemicals under pressure. This ensures accurate labelling and safer handling, reducing the risk of misclassification and regulatory issues.
- Enhanced Guidelines on Desensitised Explosives: The new edition expands guidance on desensitised explosives. Though stabilised, these materials remain hazardous.
- Updated Precautionary Statements: GHS 7.0 introduces and revises precautionary statements, improving clarity on chemical handling. Lubricant blenders must update Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and labels to meet these new standards, safeguarding users.
- Labelling for Small Containers: GHS 7.0 addresses the challenge of labelling small containers, common in the lubricant industry. It ensures critical safety information is communicated effectively, even with limited label space.
Global Implementation Challenges
Implementing GHS 7.0 globally presents challenges due to varying adoption rates. Australia, which adopted GHS 7.0 in January 2021, now faces the challenge of trading partners still using older versions. This misalignment complicates trade and increases compliance costs, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These businesses often need to reclassify and relabel products to meet different regulations, a resource-intensive process.
Australia’s Approach to GHS 7.0
Australia’s transition to GHS 7.0 was managed by Safe Work Australia (SWA), offering clear timelines and resources. This approach minimised disruptions, allowing businesses to adapt without significant operational impacts. SWA also worked with international partners to smooth out trade issues, ensuring Australian products remain competitive.
Implications for International Trade
The global variation in GHS adoption complicates international trade. Different classification and labelling standards create regulatory barriers and increase costs. For Australian lubricant manufacturers, maintaining compliance across multiple markets is challenging but essential for seamless operations and market access.
Conclusion
GHS 7.0 is a significant step in global chemical safety. For lubricant blenders and manufacturers in Australia, adopting these updates is critical for compliance, safety, and competitiveness. Australia’s strategic approach to GHS 7.0 offers a model for effective regulatory transitions, balancing compliance with business needs.