GHS Implementation in Australia

Comprehensive Guide to Chemical Safety and Regulatory Framework

Overview

Australia has fully implemented the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for classification and labelling of chemicals through the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations. The implementation ensures workplace safety and aligns with international standards for chemical hazard communication.

Implementation Timeline

Regulatory Authorities

Safe Work Australia (SWA)

  • National policy development
  • GHS implementation guidance
  • Model WHS Regulations
  • Hazardous chemicals register

Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS)

  • Chemical registration and notification
  • Industrial chemical regulation
  • Import/manufacture permits
  • Chemical inventory management

Regulatory Framework

Key Legislation

Australia's GHS implementation is governed by comprehensive workplace health and safety legislation across federal and state jurisdictions.

Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011

  • Chapter 7: Hazardous chemicals classification and labelling
  • Schedule 6: GHS classification criteria
  • Schedule 7: Prohibited and restricted chemicals
  • Part 7.1: Safety data sheet requirements

Industrial Chemicals Act 2019

  • Chemical introduction and assessment
  • Registration and notification requirements
  • Evaluation and risk management
  • Compliance and enforcement provisions

Classification and Labelling Requirements

Mandatory Requirements

All hazardous chemicals in Australian workplaces must comply with GHS classification and labelling standards.

Classification Criteria

  • Physical Hazards: 17 hazard classes (explosives, flammables, oxidizers)
  • Health Hazards: 10 hazard classes (acute toxicity, carcinogenicity, sensitization)
  • Environmental Hazards: 2 hazard classes (aquatic toxicity, ozone depletion)
  • Additional Hazards: Australian-specific requirements

Labelling Elements

  • Product Identifier: Chemical name and supplier details
  • Signal Words: "Danger" or "Warning" as appropriate
  • Hazard Pictograms: Standardized GHS symbols
  • Hazard Statements: H-codes describing hazards
  • Precautionary Statements: P-codes for safe handling

Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Requirements

16-Section Format

Australian SDS must follow the standardized 16-section GHS format with specific local requirements.

Key SDS Requirements

  • Language: English language mandatory
  • Currency: Must be current and accurate
  • Availability: Accessible to workers at all times
  • Updates: Review every 5 years or when new information available
  • Distribution: Provided with first supply and upon request

Compliance and Enforcement

Penalties and Enforcement

Non-compliance with GHS requirements can result in significant penalties under WHS legislation.

Enforcement Measures

  • Improvement Notices: Corrective action requirements
  • Prohibition Notices: Immediate cessation orders
  • Prosecutions: Court proceedings for serious breaches
  • Penalties: Fines up to AUD 3.3 million for corporations

Resources and Support