Chemical Hazard Classification and Labelling of Household Products According to GHS and Opinion & Comprehensibility Survey among Consumers

Abstract

Thailand has been enforcing Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) by relevant offices. Therefore this study was aimed to make trial classification of all chemical hazards of ingredients in a floor cleaning product and a sprayed insecticide product according to GHS for developing products’ label samples and then doing survey about label opinions and comprehensibility among general consumers. Most of chemical substances were classified of physical hazards as flammable liquid. Health hazards consisted of adverse effects on skin and eyes, respiratory and nervous systems. Moreover, the products may cause aquatic toxicity and long-term effects. Subsequent consumer survey regarding opinions and comprehensibility was conducted to compare 2 GHS-based product labels with the conventional ones. Most respondentsrated that the GHS-based product labels had readable alphabet size, non-complicated contents, and optimal size of hazard pictograms and precautionary statements. The pictograms and hazard statements induced further reading for more details on the labels. Besides these respondents had common opinions that some GHS – based hazard pictograms and hazard statements were not yet widely comprehensible. Relevant government agencies should conduct active outreach strategies towards consumers to increase their understanding and acquaintance.