GHS: BS5609

What is GHS?

GHS stands for Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. Specifically, GHS governs the physical design of a printed label used on chemical drums.

GHS is a global initiative designed to make hazardous chemical drum shipping labels universally recognizable by standardizing the symbols used. In everyday terms, it stipulates black and red ink and specific symbols to be used. Think of it in terms of a stop sign, the world over knows that a red octagon means "stop."

There are two components to GHS compliance:

• Part One: The combination of the label and ink must carry BS5609 approval.
• Part Two: The label printer must use the correct GHS symbols for whatever potential hazards are contained within the product being labeled.

It is important to understand that GHS is not a label/ink specification. GHS is only a compliance standard, meaning only the label designer can ensure GHS compliance.

What is BS5609?

BS5609 is a durability specification for chemical drum labels being used in maritime environments. A maritime environment is defined as prolonged exposure to saltwater, both immersion in salt water and abrasion from salt water.

To obtain BS5609 approval, a two-part test is conducted by an independent, third-party laboratory:

• Step One: Adhesion and durability of the material (blank label) is tested.
• Step Two: Print permanence of the printed label is tested.

Successful completion of the above allows for a specific ribbon and a specific material to be offered as meeting BS5609 specifications when used in conjunction.

It is important to understand that ink alone is not BS5609 compliant.

DNP has your solution.

Our black and red ribbons perform in the harshest maritime environments and are GHS compliant and BS5609 certified.