Category: GHS Classification, GHS Label and FISPQ/FDS

The new Standard NBR 14725 from the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) is a significant regulation for the application of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for the classification and labeling of chemicals in Brazil.

Key Points:

• Publication Date: The new ABNT NBR 14725 standard was published on July 3, 2023.
• Compliance Deadline: Companies will have a two-year transition period to comply with the new standard, making it mandatory from July 4, 2025.
• Structural Changes: The standard is presented in a single, more extensive and comprehensive part, unlike the previous version that was divided into four parts.
• Alignment with International Standards: The new standard is based on the seventh revision of the Purple Book, ensuring alignment and harmonization with international regulations on chemical classification and labeling.
• Addition of Hazard Classes: Two new hazard classes, Desensitized Explosives and Dangerous to the Ozone Layer, have been included in the classification system.
• Changes in Labeling Elements: The labeling elements have been updated, including the addition of new Hazard (H) phrases and Precautionary (P) phrases, along with modifications to existing phrases.
• Rules for Labeling Small Packages: New rules for labeling small packages have been introduced in the standard.
• Change in Terminology: The Chemical Product Safety Information Sheet will now be referred to as SDS (Safety Data Sheet).
• Updates Depend on Company Size: The extent and complexity of updates will depend on factors such as company size, the number of products sold, and the dedicated team managing these products.
• 16 Mandatory Sections: The 16 mandatory sections of the standard will remain the same, with the same order and titles. However, there are changes in some of the hazard phrases (H Phrases) and precautionary phrases (P Phrases), including the addition of new phrases and modifications to existing ones.
• These changes reflect an effort to bring Brazil's chemical classification and labeling standards in line with international best practices, enhancing safety and consistency in the handling and communication of chemical hazards. Companies operating in Brazil must adapt to these changes within the specified transition period to ensure compliance with the updated ABNT NBR 14725:2023 standard.
• Emergency Contact: Means of emergency telephone communication of the supplier or company contracted to provide information on safety, health, and the environment related to chemical products will be available 24 hours a day.