Implementation of the GHS in Japan

The GHS is a United Nations Recommendations issued in 2003 which aims to enhance the protection of human health and the environment by providing an internationally comprehensible system for hazard communication. It is expected for countries to implement the GHS as soon as possible with a view to having the system fully operational by 2008. Capacity building projects are ongoing in many countries in order to achieve full implementation. In Japan, GHS-related activities that have been initiated include translation of the GHS documents, gap analysis between the GHS and the current laws, model classification of regulated substances, amendment of Industrial Safety and Health Law, standardization of the GHS elements, development of manual, guidance and educational tools. These activities are briefly described in this paper. Critical issues that impede full implementation of the GHS in the country are also discussed. Focus is given to the system for classification and labelling of hazardous chemicals limited to regulated and controlled chemicals and on the need to develop "Right to know" concepts in chemical management. These issues may be addressed adequately as Japan works towards the full implementation of the GHS.