We have been working towards adopting the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) Revision 7 for workplace hazardous chemicals under the model WHS laws since late 2019.
A two-year transitional period was due to start on 1 July 2020. However, Safe Work Australia Members have agreed to delay the start of the transitional period due to the impact of COVID-19 on Australian businesses.
The new start date for the transitional period is 1 January 2021. A full two-year transitional period will follow from this date.
To ensure that any importers and manufacturers that had already begun work on implementing GHS 7 are not disadvantaged, state and territory governments will put in place regulatory arrangements allowing businesses to start classifying and labelling chemicals in accordance with GHS 7 from 1 July 2020. Suppliers and end users will also be able to supply and use GHS 7 labelled chemicals under these arrangements. Details of the regulatory arrangements will be published on our website when they become available.
Guidance to support businesses to transition to GHS 7 will also be published on our website soon.
To stay informed about the transition to GHS 7, subscribe to the hazardous chemicals mailing list.
