In recent years, the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) has become the cornerstone for chemical management and hazard communication worldwide. But as with any system that involves multiple jurisdictions, the GHS is subject to regional adaptations and revisions.

South America is undergoing significant changes in its GHS framework, influenced by a desire for regional harmonization and global alignment. For exporters to South America, understanding these upcoming changes is not just a matter of compliance; it’s an avenue to remain competitive and efficient.

Key Changes in South American GHS Regulations

Expansion of the Chemical Inventory: Most South American countries are expanding their national chemical inventories to include a broader range of substances. Companies exporting chemicals will need to adhere to updated classifications and labelling requirements.

Enhanced Hazard Communication Measures: Labelling requirements are becoming more stringent, requiring additional hazard statements and precautionary measures. The objective is to provide downstream users and emergency responders with more information for safer chemical management

Adoption of Latest GHS Revision: Countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia are making strides to adopt the most recent revisions of the GHS, bringing them in line with other major markets like the EU and the USA

Digitalization and E-reporting: To simplify compliance and also to facilitate international trade, there’s a move toward adopting electronic systems for submitting safety data sheets and other compliance documents

The Yordas Perspective (Turning Challenge into Opportunity): With local representation across various South American markets and a long history of aiding organisations in product marketability, Yordas Group understands the practical implications of these changes

Regulatory Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of regulatory change is the first line of defence for any exporter. Yordas Group provides real-time updates to ensure your compliance strategy is always current

In-Country Support: Yordas’ LATAM presence, is supported by a dedicated team of HazCom specialists experienced in overseeing GHS implementation within the region. Overcoming language and cultural barriers can be challenging, but our team of experts is here to help bridge the gap seamlessly.

Tailored Solutions: While GHS is about harmonization, we understand that one size doesn’t fit all. Our tailored solutions ensure that your product meets both regional and international requirements without unnecessary over-engineering

Efficient Supply Chain: Timely compliance reduces disruptions in your supply chain. Yordas Group helps you anticipate changes, ensuring a smooth transition and avoiding costly delays

The evolving landscape of GHS in South America is an inflexion point for the industry. Change brings challenges but also presents opportunities for businesses that are agile, informed, and proactive. With Yordas, you can navigate these regulatory rapids with compliance in mind and a focus on long-term marketability and success.

For a detailed consultation and a bespoke approach to maintaining compliance in South America, reach out to our team today. You can also watch our GHS implementation status in South America webinar to build your understanding of the region’s evolving regulatory environment. 

Be sure to visit our website for a deeper look into our HazCom-related services, and subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest industry developments and changes.

About our experts

Fiona Moir
Managing Hazard Communication Consultant

Fiona is an experienced Safety Data Sheet author with over 10 years of experience. She leads the GHS and SDS services at Yordas, including the delivery, and ongoing development of service structure, operations and training. These services involve compiling and assessing product labels; including aspects of additional regulations such as Biocidal Products Regulation, Detergents Directive and the Aerosols Dispensers Directive.

Nathan Town-Field
Senior Hazard Communication Consultant

Nathan Town-Field is a Senior Regulatory Consultant at Yordas, with a focus on global hazard communication. With six years of expertise in GHS and CLP classification and labelling of substances and mixtures, Nathan is well-versed in navigating the complex regulatory landscape surrounding chemical safety. A key responsibility for Nathan leading the team responsible for authoring Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to global standards, ensuring that they accurately communicate the hazards associated with chemicals and provide essential safety information to downstream users. Additionally, he is proficient in poison centre notification obligations, and as Yordas' lead eSDS author, Nathan plays a crucial role in extracting exposure scenarios from various sources.