On August 2018, Colombia implemented the sixth revised edition of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS 6) for the hazard classification of substances and mixtures. This implementation came into force with the adoption of Decree No. 1496. Subsequently, Resolution 0773 of the Ministry of Labour and Health was released on 7 April 2021 for the implementation of GHS 6 in the workplace. This resolution took effect on the date of publication. It is mandatory to classify, label and prepare safety data sheets for hazardous good according to GHS 6 as of 7 April 2023 for substances and 7 April 2024 for mixtures.
Colombia has adopted building blocks according to GHS 6 but has not yet officially disclosed which building blocks have been adopted.
Labelling in Colombia must follow the requirements set out in Chapter II of Decree No. 1496/2018. Labels must be in Spanish and must be reviewed every 5 years. The following label elements are mandatory.
In addition, the nominal quantity of the product and the batch number may be indicated on the product label.
Colombia requires hazardous chemical suppliers, including manufacturers and importers, to issue Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) with reliable and up-to-date information. These documents must be written in Spanish and kept available in any workplace where the relevant chemicals are handled or stored. Employers are also expected to make sure that employees can consult the SDSs whenever needed.
The SDS format must be based on Annex 4 of the sixth revised edition of the GHS, which sets out the recommended structure for Safety Data Sheets. Each document should state when it was first prepared and, where relevant, when it was last revised.
SDSs must be checked at least once every five years. However, they should be reviewed sooner when new information becomes available about the hazards or risks of a chemical. Labels and SDSs must also be revised when hazardous chemicals are introduced, replaced, or when updated risk information requires changes.
Decree 1609 of July 31, 2002 regulates the transport of hazardous materials in Colombia. In addition, Resolution 1223 of May 14, 2014, introduced mandatory certification for drivers of vehicles transporting dangerous goods.
In Colombia, packaging requirements for dangerous goods in Classes 1 to 9 are established through the national technical standards referenced in Decree No. 1609. These standards are based on different editions of the UN Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, helping to ensure that national packaging rules are consistent with internationally recognized safety practices.
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