What is the GHS classification Physical Hazards composed of?

                                                                                         

Globally Harmonized System is composed of three hazard groups, “Physical Hazards” is one of them. “Physical Hazards” section is broken down into sixteen subcategories, which are:

1.Explosives
2.Flammable Gases
3.Flammable Aerosols
4.Oxidizing Gases
5.Gases Under Pressure
6.Flammable Liquids
7.Flammable Solids
8.Self-Reactive Substances
9.Pyrophoric Liquids
10.Pyrophoric Solids
11.Self-Heating Substances and Mixtures
12.Substances and Mixtures Which, In Contact With Water, Emit Flammable Gases
13.Oxidizing Liquids
14.Oxidizing Solids
15.Organic Peroxides
16.Corrosive to Metals

Each subcategory is broken down into one or more hazard categories depending on the level of danger. The criteria for the “Physical Hazard” class are associated with specific test methods for hazard classes such as “Flammability” and “Explosivity”. “Physical Hazards” are mainly based on those of the United Nations Dangerous Goods System. In order for the “Physical Hazard” class to be classified in a proper manner some additions and changes were necessary since the scope of the GHS includes all target audiences.

While “Physical Hazards” are important in the workplace and transportation sector, the general consumer may not need to know some of the specific Physical Hazards in the type of use they have for a product. As long as that certain hazard covered by a sector or system are covered consistently with the GHS criteria and requirements, it will be considered appropriate implementation of GHS.

What concerns the GHS “Physical Hazards” transport system, GHS regulation always gives precedence to a classification as an Organic Peroxide or Self-Reactive Substance, and explosive properties are considered a secondary hazard, where the EU will always give precedence to explosive properties. However, a major part of the GHS regulation focuses its requirements on ensuring that workplace, environment and consumer safety issues are adequately addressed. Certain “Physical Hazards” (e.g. due to explosive or oxidizing properties) may be altered by dilution, as is the case for desensitized explosives, by inclusion in a mixture or article, packaging or other factors. Classification procedures for specific sectors (e.g. storage) should take experience and expertise into account as well.

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