In-depth Analysis of Peru's GHS: Specific Requirements for Chemical Classification, Labeling, and SDS

On April 8, 2026, Peru's Ministry of Environment (MINAM) formally promulgated the Implementing Regulations for the Comprehensive Chemicals Management Law. These regulations explicitly propose the establishment of a National Chemicals Registry System and the adoption of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) 6th Revised Edition (2015 version). Previously, CIRS Group has provided a brief interpretation of these regulations. For related information, please refer to: https://www.chemradar.com/en/news/detail/fjpo0of2at4w. Next, we will provide an in-depth analysis of the specific requirements and implementation key points of Peru's GHS.

Specific Requirements

I. Obligations of Responsible Parties

II. Acute Toxicity Category 5

This is a key feature of Peru's GHS – fully adopting this "optional" GHS category:

• Definition: Identifies substances with relatively low acute toxicity (LD50: 2000-5000 mg/kg) that may still pose hazards to vulnerable populations.
• Classification Criteria: Two pathways are defined:
• Pathway i (Reliable Data): When DL50 values fall within this range, or animal/human studies indicate health concerns.
• Pathway ii (Extrapolation/Estimation): When classification into a higher category is not possible, confirmation of significant toxic effects is based on expert judgment.
• Animal Welfare Consideration: Explicitly discourages animal testing for Category 5. Such testing should only be considered if the results are essential for protecting human health, aligning with the OECD-Legal/0252 principle on reducing animal testing.

III. Detailed Labeling System

3.1 Seven Mandatory Elements

1. Supplier identification (name, address, telephone number).
2. Hazard statements (Indicaciones de peligro) – Codes refer to Appendix 1.
3. Hazard pictograms (9 standard GHS pictograms, black symbol/white background/red diamond border). For interpretation of GHS pictograms, visit ChemRadar GHS Pedia: https://www.chemradar.com/en/inventory-wiki/ek8faswljta8.
4. Precautionary statements (Consejos de prudencia) – Minimum 1, maximum 6.
5. Signal word ("Peligro" (Danger) or "Atención" (Warning)).
6. Product identifier (consistent with the FDS, i.e., SDS).
7. Supplementary information (may include symbols like NFPA).

3.2 Language Requirement

• Mandatory: Spanish (official language of Peru).
• Allowed: Additional languages may be added, but they cannot replace Spanish.

3.3 Labeling for Small Containers (Innovative Regulation) 

For containers with capacity ≤250 ml, requirements are simplified based on capacity tiers:

3.4 Minimum Label Size Standards

3.5 Other Important Provisions

• Relabeling: Permitted for repairing damaged labels within the supply chain.
• Movable Containers: All movable containers (including those for transfers) must be labeled.
• Fixed Storage Tanks: Must at least display pictogram(s) and signal word.
• Prohibition of Misleading Terms: Misleading terms like "non-toxic" or "eco-friendly" are strictly prohibited for hazardous substances.
• International Trade: Labels of different sizes are allowed, but must include Spanish.

IV. Safety Data Sheet (FDS/SDS) System

4.1 Complete 16-Section Structure Strictly follows GHS Annex 4 Guidance for the Preparation of Safety Data Sheets: 1. Identification; 2. Hazard(s) identification; 3. Composition/information on ingredients; 4. First-aid measures; 5. Fire-fighting measures; 6. Accidental release measures; 7. Handling and storage; 8. Exposure controls/personal protection; 9. Physical and chemical properties; 10. Stability and reactivity; 11. Toxicological information; 12. Ecological information; 13. Disposal considerations; 14. Transport information; 15. Regulatory information; 16. Other information.

4.2 Specific Requirements

• Operational Detail: Sections 4-8 and 13-14 prohibit vague descriptions (e.g., cannot state "use gloves," must specify "nitrile gloves").
• Language: Mandatory Spanish.
• Updates: Must be reviewed and updated at least every 5 years.
• Traceability: The first page must indicate the GHS version, issuance date, and version number.
• Accessibility: Must be readily available in physical or electronic form at the point of use, provided free of charge.
• Provision to the Public: When selling directly to the public, must be provided immediately upon request.

V. Pre-classified List (LCA - Lista de Clasificación Anticipada) 

To help companies reduce classification costs and provide an initial reference, MINAM will develop a Pre-classified List. This list will be based on Table 3.1 of the EU CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and updated at least every two years via a Ministerial Resolution. This list is a non-restrictive, minimum reference standard and is non-exhaustive.

VI. Notification Timeline

• Second half of 2027: Notification thresholds to be approved via Supreme Decree.
• Before Q4 2031: Manufacturers/importers exceeding thresholds must complete the initial notification.

VII. Exemptions 

The following products in their final use form are explicitly exempted:

• Pharmaceuticals.
• Pesticides for agricultural use and agricultural inputs.
• Medical devices for human/veterinary use.

Note: Chemical substances used to manufacture the above products are not excluded. Active ingredients in pesticides, fertilizers, and other agricultural inputs are explicitly exempted.

ChemRadar Insights

Relevant enterprises need to take the following actions as soon as possible:

1. Verify product scope.
2. Establish classification capability.
3. Prepare Spanish label and FDS (SDS) templates.
4. Set up a 10-year record-keeping system.

CIRS Group will continue to monitor developments regarding the release of related threshold regulations, providing timely compliance information and support for enterprises.

Further Information

Gov.