KTR Chemical Regulatory Compliance Center

[Summary]

Issuing Authority: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW), Japan
Date of Issue: March 27, 2025
Subject: Update on Designated Chemical Substances and Hazard Information under the Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA)

Legal Basis:

Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA), Japan

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)

[Main Points]

Purpose:

• To announce updates to the list of designated hazardous chemical substances under the ISHA.
• To promote workplace chemical safety through updated hazard classifications and provision of related safety resources..

Scope and Policy:

• Newly designated chemical substances were published based on updated hazard information.
• Updates include substances categorized as:
  • Skin corrosive/irritant
  • Acute toxicants
  • Carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reproductive toxicants (CMRs)
• The list reflects substances requiring labeling and SDS provision under GHS standards.

Implementation:

• Employers handling the newly designated substances must:
  • Label containers using GHS-compliant symbols and language.
  • Provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to workers.
  • Conduct risk assessments and implement appropriate protective measures in the workplace.
• The MHLW provides downloadable model labels and SDS templates on its website.

Regulatory Impact:

• Businesses and manufacturers in Japan that handle chemicals must review and update compliance procedures in line with the new designations.
• Non-compliance could result in violations of occupational safety regulations and potential sanctions.
• The update supports Japan’s broader strategy to align with international chemical safety practices and ensure worker health protection.

Reference : https://anzeninfo.mhlw.go.jp/user/anzen/kag/202503kag_new.htm