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"Has South Africa adopted the GHS classification, labeling, safety data sheet (SDS), and transport criteria?"

South Africa has taken its first step toward implementing the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) by issuing a National Standard in February 2007.The standard adopts the GHS classification, labeling, safety data sheet (SDS), and transport criteria.

There are numerous regulations governing hazard communication in South Africa. The existing legal framework for chemical classification and hazard communication is somewhat fragmented. The classification, labeling, SDS and transport requirements are currently covered by six national laws (and various municipal by-laws) administered by different ministries. The various technical aspects of hazard classification and communication are currently implemented by way of SABS Codes of Practice which are referenced in legislation.

With the issuance of the GHS national standard, it is expected that the South African regulatory framework will provide much more harmonized and comprehensive legal requirements throughout the life-cycle of chemicals across the board (from transport, agriculture, consumer products to industrial production sectors). The GHS national standard must still be referenced in the legislation to become a mandatory technical standard. A new regulation must be promulgated and/or existing legislation needs to be amended accordingly to provide the legal basis for the GHS implementation in South Africa by 2008.

The standard includes all of the GHS elements and criteria. It also incorporates by reference the following current standards:

• SANS 10228 (The Identification and Classification of Dangerous Goods for Transport
• SANS 10229-1 (Transport of Dangerous Goods - Part I: Packaging)
• SANS 10233 (SABS 0233) (Transport of Dangerous Goods – Intermediate Bulk Containers)

The South African National Standard (SANS) 10234:2007 on Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) can be purchased directly from the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) at https://www.sabs.co.za/.

--- Christina Widodo, JD

Ms. Widodo is manager, Asia Pacific regulatory affairs.  As an Asia Pacific Regulatory specialist, Ms. Widodo manages 3E’s Asia Pacific regulatory issues.

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