The FY2024 GHS Recommended Classification List was recently posted on the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation (NITE) website by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW), Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), and Ministry of the Environment (MOE) of Japan. For businesses handling chemical dangers, this list is an essential resource.

Based on the Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA) and the Chemical chemicals Control Law (CSCL), this update updates the categorization data for 186 chemicals. Of these, 143 chemicals already in existence have had their categories updated, while 43 substances have been given new classifications. Physicochemical, health, and environmental dangers are the three hazard categories covered by the list, which also includes substance names, CAS numbers, and evaluation findings. Japan provides consistent guidelines for creating Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and chemical labels, implementing an annual update procedure to improve environmental and human health protection during chemical use and circulation.

Application on a voluntary basis with enterprise responsibility

· Non-mandatory reference: The Japanese government makes it clear that this list’s classification findings are meant solely for optional reference. While it is not legally obligatory, businesses are free to cite or copy list information when making GHS labels or SDS.

· Enterprise autonomy in decision-making: Businesses are free to use classification results that differ from the suggested list in their labels or SDS based on additional scientific data or test results they have.

· Last responsibility: Businesses are accountable for the correctness and compliance of their label and SDS information, regardless of whether the suggested list is implemented.

The GHS Recommended Classification and Standard Classification

· The UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, which is enforceable in Japan, is based on the GHS Standard Classification. Along with standardized styles and content for labels and SDS, it outlines criteria for recognizing and categorizing chemical risks. It is an obligatory global regulation.

· Japan’s Recommended Classification: The Japanese government created this list as a localized implementation guideline to address certain domestic chemical safety management requirements. It frequently offers more thorough and focused categorization suggestions and information to flexibly adjust to Japan’s market realities while conforming to GHS worldwide standards (e.g., unique provisions may exist for chemicals exclusively produced or used in Japan). Although it is not legally binding, it is a very useful reference in real-world situations.

Through the concurrent processes of GHS Standard Classification and Recommended Classification, Japan’s chemical safety management system ensures compliance with worldwide standards while meeting domestic industrial and regulatory requirements. This method clarifies businesses’ key duty

in information application while granting regulatory flexibility and pragmatism. To guarantee compliance, businesses need to be aware of the differences and relationships between the two systems.

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