How To Ensure Compliance With GHS Labeling Requirements in 2025
For chemical manufacturers, compliance with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s essential for workplace safety, environmental responsibility, and avoiding costly penalties.
With changes taking effect in 2025, staying ahead of the game is critical. Let’s break down the latest GHS compliance updates, common labeling pitfalls to avoid, and a simple checklist to ensure your chemical labeling meets the latest GHS labeling standards.
What’s New for GHS Labeling in 2025?
The United Nations updates the GHS every two years, and many countries, including the U.S., are aligning their regulations accordingly. OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), for example, follows these GHS labeling standards to maintain consistency across the board.
For 2025, key updates include:
- New hazard classifications – Expect refinements in categories like aerosols, desensitized explosives, and chemicals under pressure.
- Stronger labeling requirements for small containers – Ensure proper identification even on limited label space.
- Revised precautionary statements – Standardize wording for better clarity across global markets.
There’s more to GHS labeling requirements than just following basic rules. Depending on your industry, your labels may also need to adhere to OSHA, DOT, and BS5609 regulations, supporting safe storage, transport, and use of hazardous materials.
Staying current with GHS labeling requirements not only ensures regulatory compliance but also protects your workers, customers, and brand reputation—making it a vital part of any chemical safety program.
Common GHS Labeling Mistakes (and how to fix them)
Despite their best intentions, many chemical manufacturers fall short of full compliance with the GHS labeling system. Here are common mistakes—and how to fix them:
❌ Incomplete or incorrect hazard pictograms – All GHS labels must include the correct red-bordered pictograms corresponding to a chemical’s classification. Using outdated symbols or missing any can result in compliance failures.
✔ Solution: Regularly review and update label templates to align with the latest GHS revisions.
❌ Illegible or faded labels – Chemical exposure, UV light, and harsh environments can cause labels to deteriorate, making crucial safety information unreadable.
✔ Solution: Take a holistic view of your application to provide the right combination of material, adhesive, and coating for long-lasting compliance. Seek a consultative approach from your supplier to find an optimized solution, whether your labels need to withstand marine immersion (BS5609), extreme temperatures, or chemical abrasion.
❌ Mismatched information between SDS and labels – If your Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and labels provide conflicting hazard classifications or precautionary statements, you could be at risk for violations.
✔ Solution: Leverage a flexible printing approach, combining on-demand and pre-printed labels, ensuring accuracy across your GHS labeling system.
GHS Compliance Checklist for 2025
Use this quick checklist to ensure your GHS labeling requirements are fully met:
- Review GHS 2025 updated regulations and ensure all hazard classifications are accurate.
- Verify all required label elements (pictograms, signal words, hazard/precautionary statements).
- Check label durability – Are labels resistant to chemicals, moisture, and abrasion?
- Ensure alignment with SDS documents to avoid discrepancies.
- Standardize labeling across suppliers to maintain consistency and compliance.
- Leverage automation for on-demand printing to reduce errors and improve efficiency.
By integrating your compliance process with a proactive strategy, you’ll stay ahead of evolving GHS labeling requirements and reduce risk across your operations.
The Right Labeling Solution For Compliance and Efficiency
Managing multiple suppliers for chemical labeling can lead to operational inefficiencies and increase your risk of noncompliance with GHS labeling standards. At Gateway Print and Label Solutions, we offer a turnkey approach that simplifies compliance and enhances efficiency.
Our flexible solutions support both on-demand and pre-printed labels, ensuring your GHS labeling system is compliant with GHS, OSHA, DOT, and BS5609 standards. We work with you to determine the best printer technology, software, and label materials for your unique needs.
One challenge in maintaining GHS compliance is ensuring that every location has the necessary labels and supplies on hand. With Gateway’s managed warehouse and distribution services, you can eliminate downtime while avoiding obsolete inventory.
Don’t let labeling inefficiencies put your business at risk—get in touch with us for a consultation and ensure your labeling strategy aligns with the latest GHS labeling requirements for 2025 and beyond.