Guide to China GHS (Classification, SDSs & Labels) for Chemical Safety

Introduction

In today’s globalized chemical industry, ensuring compliance with safety regulations is critical. Two essential tools for communicating chemical hazards are the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) label. This article explores their purpose, regulatory requirements (with a focus on China), and best practices for compliance—key insights for manufacturers, suppliers, and downstream users.

What Are SDS and GHS Labels?

Safety Data Sheet

An SDS is a standardized document that provides comprehensive safety information about a chemical product. Mandated under the United Nations’ GHS framework, it is a critical component of chemical safety management, designed to protect workers, emergency responders, and the environment by detailing hazards, handling procedures, and regulatory compliance. SDSs travel with chemicals throughout the supply chain, ensuring safety protocols are followed at every stage.

GHS Label

The GHS label is a visual hazard communication tool affixed to chemical packaging. It uses universal symbols, signal words, and hazard statements to convey risks, tips for safety using and protection quickly. The GHS label could be stuck to, or printed in the coverages or containers, indicating diifferent kinds of information about the risks.

When Are SDS and GHS Labels Required?

– Hazardous chemical registration and supervision

– Import/export customs clearance

– New substance registrations

– Transportation (shipping, air freight)

– Downstream customer requests

– Internal safety protocols

– Certification

– Corporate safety notices

– Other purposes

Regulatory Requirements of SDS, GHS Labels in China

The Regulations on the Safety Management of Hazardous Chemicals is the highest law governing China’s GHS, and there are a series of national standards that are compatible with the implementation of China’s GHS. China’s GHS framework integrates international standards with local regulations. Key laws and standards include:

Classification

Regulations on Classification and Labelling of Chemicals Part 1: General Principles– GB 30000.1-2024 (effective August 2025)

Regulations on Classification and Labelling of Chemicals– GB 30000.2–29-2013 (effective November 2014)

Labelling

Regulations on the Preparation of Chemical Safety Labels–GB 15258-2009

SDS Preparation

GB/T 16483-2008 (structure and contents of SDS, effective February 2009)

GB/T 17519-2013 (technical guidelines for SDS, effective January 2014)

Key Elements of SDS

The SDS includes 16 standardized sections, covering:

1. Identification

2. Hazard classification

3. Composition/ingredients

4. First-aid measures

5. Firefighting measures

6. Accidental release measures

7. Handling and storage

8. Exposure controls/personal protection

9. Physical and chemical properties

10. Stability and reactivity

11. Toxicological information

12. Ecological information

13. Disposal considerations

14. Transport information

15. Regulatory information

16. Other details (revision dates, etc.)

Key Elements of GHS Labels

– Chemical identification (primary components), pictograms, signal words (e.g., “Danger” or “Warning”), hazard statements, precautionary statements, supplier information, reminder phrases, and emergency contact numbers.

– Product names in English and Chinese (model numbers): must be prominently displayed at the top of the label, consistent with the name in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

– Signal words: “Danger” (for severe hazards) or “Warning” (for less severe hazards), based on hazard classification.

– Pictograms: follow UN GHS standards, GB 30000.1-2024 and GB 30000.2–30000.29–2013.

– Hazard statements: Concise descriptions of hazards, aligned with UN GHS and GB standards.

– Precautionary statements: Include safety measures for handling, storage, and disposal; emergency response steps for spills, exposure, or fires; and environmental disposal guidelines.

– Reminder phrase: “Refer to the Safety Data Sheet” or similar wording.

– Supplier information: Name, address, and contact details.

– 24-hour emergency contact number (valid and staffed).

What You Need to Prepare SDS and GHS Labels

To ensure accuracy, gather:

– Applicant or corporate, address, contact numbers, fax, e-mail

– Product name, composition (CAS numbers, percentages)

– Physical/chemical properties (e.g., flammability, pH)

– Toxicological and ecotoxicological data

– Transport classification (UN numbers, packing groups)

– Supplier details and 24/7 emergency contact

Why Partner with REACH24H for Compliance?

As a global leader in chemical compliance, REACH24H offers:

– Expert SDS/GHS Label Preparation: Aligned with China, EU, US, and other global regulations.

– 24/7 Emergency Support: Multilingual response teams for crisis management.

– Regulatory Guidance: Stay updated on evolving standards

Our Competitive Edge:

– Professional and experienced teams

– Proven Expertise: 60,000+ SDS/label projects completed

– Direct engagement with regulators for seamless compliance

– Tailored solutions for SMEs and multinationals

– Multilingual specialists (English, Japanese, Korean etc.)