Requirements for hazardous chemical labels
Classification information must be presented on the hazardous chemical’s label. Australia uses the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals for the classification of hazardous chemicals.
Only GHS 7 can now be used to label newly manufactured and imported hazardous chemicals in Australia. You can find more information on our Adoption of GHS 7 page.
Labelling chemicals from overseas
Labels for hazardous workplace chemicals must be prepared in accordance with the GHS requirements and model WHS Regulations. Overseas labels may not include specific information that is required by the model WHS Regulations, such as the contact details of the Australian importer.
Australian importers of hazardous chemicals must:
- check that classifications safety data sheets and labels comply with the GHS and the model WHS Regulations.
- update labels, safety data sheets and classifications with required information.
Using labels from the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail
The Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail (ADG Code) sets out the requirements for transporting dangerous goods by road or rail.
You may:
- substitute the GHS pictograms with ADG class labels, if they represent the same hazard
- include GHS pictograms and ADG class labels for separate hazards on a label for a workplace chemical.
You should not use an ADG class label and a GHS pictogram for the same hazard.
For example:
- you can substitute the GHS flame pictogram with the ADG flammable liquid class label when both apply to the product
- you should not include the GHS flame pictogram and the ADG flammable liquid class label together on the same label for a workplace chemical.
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| GHS Flame Pictogram | ADG Flammable Liquid Class Label |
The ADG Code has minimum sizes for ADG class labels. When making labels to meet both WHS and transport requirements, you must meet the ADG Code.
The model Code of Practice: Labelling of workplace hazardous chemicals compares GHS and ADG pictograms and has examples of combination labels.