Globally Harmonized System or GHS is the classification and labeling of all chemical substances of hazardous nature. This system was started at the behest of the United Nations and classifies all chemicals on the basis of the types of hazards they may cause. The initiative came about due to vast disparities in the manner individual countries classified different chemicals and the nature of hazard associated with them. Since each country had its own classification system for chemicals and their hazardous nature it was becoming impossible to establish a common platform among countries. Therefore, when an explosive substance needed to move through different countries several problems were faced in deciding the type of precautions to be taken in handling, transporting, dealing with accidents and even the very acceptance of the explosive on a foreign soil.

The system was then introduced by the United Nations with the sole intention of rationalizing hazardous chemicals in a uniform manner globally. This was to define the hazards to health and the environment, establish a link between the classification and the hazard criteria and thereafter communicate such information on hazards, the protective measures needed to be taken and the manner of labeling to all countries globally for compliance over a period of time. GHS is neither a standard nor a regulation. Its document supplies a method to meet any eventuality necessitated by a hazard communication system that seeks to connect a chemical with its associated hazard and prepare either a label or an SDS (Safety Data Sheet) or both as appropriate. The United Nations Economic and Social Council endorsed this system in July 2003. However, there is no global implementation schedule. With the implementation it is hoped that member countries will face fewer accidents or incidents from chemicals. Health costs are expected to reduce. There will be better protections provided from chemical hazards to workers and the public. The working environment in companies will be safer with improved working efficiency. Fewer illnesses and accidents will mean greater cost benefits. The goal of achieving total safety in the use of hazardous chemicals will result from the creation of Risk Management Systems as fallout of GHS classification.