Who is forbidden from shipping containers that are not labeled according to GHS format?

Distributors are forbidden from shipping containers that are not labeled according to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) format because the GHS is designed to ensure that chemical hazard information is communicated consistently and comprehensibly. Proper labeling is crucial for the safe handling, transportation, and use of chemicals. Distributors play a vital role in the supply chain by ensuring that products are adequately labeled before reaching the end users, such as employers or direct customers.

The GHS labeling requirements encompass elements like hazard pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, precautionary statements, and other key information. Failing to adhere to these regulations could lead to serious safety risks, regulatory penalties, and potentially legal liability for the distributor. Thus, compliance with GHS labeling is not just a matter of best practice; it is a regulatory obligation that distributors must uphold to protect health and safety during the transport of hazardous materials.