Japan Revises Chemical Classification and Labelling Standards Based on UN GHS Rev. 6.

On May 25th, the amended Japanese Industrial Standards JIS Z 7252-2019[1] and JIS Z 7253-2019[2] were made public. They are revised to be aligned with UN GHS Rev. 6[3].

Japan mandates GHS-related obligations under three laws, including:

• Industrial Safety and Health Law (ISHL);

• Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (PRTR) Law;

• Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Law (PDSCL). 

These laws have different applicable scopes but all refer to the same standards on the criteria for classification, labeling and SDS preparation, namely:

• JIS Z 7252: Classification of Chemicals Based on GHS;

• JIS Z 7253: Hazard Communication of Chemicals Based on GHS - Labelling and Safety Data Sheet.

A notable revision was that an additional hazard class for desensitized explosives with new H statements H206 to H208 was incorporated into the standards. In addition, a sub-hazard category (Pyrophoric gas) was introduced for flammable gases.

When complying with Japan GHS requirements, the industry should refer to the two Japanese National Standards. The standards of 2019 version were effective immediately. A three-year grace period was given until May 24th, 2022. Stakeholders currently can still follow the JIS Z 7252-2014[4] and JIS Z 7253-2012[5].