The Philippines has adopted GHS in workplace based on UN GHS Rev.3 by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Order No.136-14 in 2014. GHS compliance in workplace is mandatory from 14 Mar 2015. In addition, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has implemented GHS in phases from 2015 by Administrative Order 2015-09 (DAO 2015-09). 

Below are the most important regulations relating to Philippines GHS.

• DOLE Order No.136-14: Guidelines for the Implementation of Globally Harmonized System (GHS) in Chemical Safety Program in the Workplace (published on 28 Feb 2014 and came into force from 14 Mar 2014; One-year grace period was given to comply with it)

• DAO 2015-09: Rules and the Procedures for the Implementation of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals in Preparation of Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and Labeling Requirements of Toxic Chemical Substances (published on 19 May 2015; Implemented in phases)

• Guidance Manual of DAO 2015-09: EMB MC 2015-011 (provided GHS classification criteria and more detailed requirements)

GHS implementation in phases

HVCs are considered to have higher potential exposure to human and environment because of their high volumes. But the identification of HVCs and the implementaion detials didn’t come out until late 2017 when DENR issued the Memorandum Circular 2017-010 (See ChemLinked news).

The HVCs are determined by the following criteria:

1. Chemicals manufactured, imported, distributed, used, stored and transported above 500 ton/year would be subject to evaluation based on the criteria below, and then the hazards would be identified and classified:

• Acute toxicity;

• Chronic toxicity;

• Development toxicity;

• Reproductive toxicity;

• Mutagenicity;

• Aquatic toxicity;

• Environmental fate such as bio-accumulative, persistent and non-degradable.

2. All chemicals classified under the GHS criteria would be included in the HVCs List (the Annex 1 to the Memorandum Circular).

Obligations

• All chemical improters, manufacturers, suppliers and distributors shall prepare SDS and Labels accordingly and submit them when securing permits, licenses and clearances.

• Electronic copy of the latest revision of SDS shall be submitted to DENR-EMB for compilation of SDS. The SDS shall be used to:

• Monitor the inventory of chemicals in the country;

• Update the information in the existing Philippine Inventory of Chemicals and Chemical Substances (PICCS);

• Provide information during emergency situations involving the chemicals and /or mixtures;

• Gather information for future establishment of a comprehensive chemical database.

• An importer, distributor, supplier and manufacturer shall submit to DENR-EMB an updated revision of the SDS every 5 years of submission or any changes in the product composition.

Labelling

According to EMB MC 2015-011, the label elements include:

• Hazard pictogram

• Signal word

• Hazard statement

• Precautionary statement

• Product identifier/ declaration of ingredients/ chemical identity

• Supplier identification

• Supplemental information

English shall be used as the primary language.

GHS Label Size Requirements in the Philippines:

SDS

The format and content of the Philippines GHS SDS is almost identical to the SDS required under the EU CLP, both maintaining 16 headings to keep consistent with the UN GHS. 

News

• 6 Mar 2018, “The Philippines Detailed GHS Requirements for High Volume Chemicals” 

• 3 Apr 2015, “Clarifying Philippines GHS Implementation Timeline”

• 18 Mar 2014, “Philippines Starting to Implement 3rd Revision of GHS in the Workplace”

• 18 Jan 2013, “Philippines FDA Consults on GHS for Consumer Products”

• 12 Oct 2011, “Philippines Launches GHS Scheme”