SS 586-2 2008 (Hazard Communication For Hazardous Chemicals & Dangerous Goods)

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SINGAPORE STANDARD
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
(ICS 13.300)
SPECIFICATION FOR
Hazard communication for
hazardous chemicals and
dangerous goods
Part 2 : Globally harmonised system of
classification and labelling of chemicals –
Singapore’s adaptations
Published by
SPRING Singapore
2 Bukit Merah Central
Singapore 159835
SPRING Singapore Website: www.spring.gov.sg
Standards Website: www.standards.org.sg
SINGAPORE STANDARD
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
(ICS 13.300)
SPECIFICATION FOR
Hazard communication for
hazardous chemicals and
dangerous goods
Part 2 : Globally harmonised system of
classification and labelling of chemicals –
Singapore’s adaptations
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this Singapore

Standard may be reproduced or utilised in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilming, without
permission in writing from SPRING Singapore at the address below:
Head
Standardisation Department
SPRING Singapore
Singapore 159835
Telephone: 62786666 Telefax: 62786667
Email: stn@spring.gov.sg
ISBN 981-4154-75-X
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
This Singapore Standard was approved by Chemical Standards Committee on behalf of the
Standards Council of Singapore on 9 September 2008.
First published, 2008
The Chemical Standards Committee appointed by the Standards Council consists of the following
members:
Name Capacity
Chairman : Dr Peter Chan Ping Kwong Member, Standards Council

Deputy
Chairman : Mr Lawrence Cheung Member, Standards Council
Secretary : Ms Ho Phuy Bee SPRING Singapore
Members : Professor Gan Leong Huat National Institute of Education
Ms Ho Gek Mui Singapore Water Association
Mr Terence Koh Singapore Chemical Industry Council Limited
Ms Lam Kit Wing Individual Capacity
Mr Leong Kwai Yin National Environment Agency
Prof Sam Li National University of Singapore
Assoc Prof Thomas Liew Singapore Surface Analysis Interest Group
Mr Alan Lim Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Mr Lim Kian Chye Housing & Development Board
Mr Nee Pai How Plastics and Rubber Institute of Singapore
Ms Pamela Phua Singapore Paints Manufacturers' Association
Mr Wang Hui Hua Singapore Chemical Industry Council Limited
Dr Yin Xi Jiang / Singapore Surface Finishing Society
Mr Vincent Tan
Co-opted
Members : Mr Lim Eng Kiat Individual Capacity
Mr Seah Khen Hee Individual Capacity
Dr Teo Khay Chuan Individual Capacity
The Technical Committee for Chemistry, appointed by the Chemical Standards Committee and
responsible for the preparation of this standard consists of representatives from the following
organisations:
Name Capacity
Chairman : Dr Teo Khay Chuan Individual Capacity

Deputy
Chairman : Mr Leong Kwai Yin National Environment Agency
Secretary : Ms Jesline Lim SPRING Singapore
Members : Mr Cheah Sin Moh Singapore Polytechnic
Ms Veronica Chow Ministry of Manpower
Mr Koh Chin Yong National Environment Agency
Ms Liu Dan* Singapore Chemical Industry Council Limited
Ms Low Min Yong Health Sciences Authority
Mr Roman C Luth Individual Capacity
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Members : Maj Thng Ting Mong / Singapore Civil Defence Force

Cpt Steve Koa Hean Kiong
Mr Philip Yeo Hock Beng Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
The Working Group appointed by the Technical Committee on Chemistry to assist in the preparation
of this standard comprises the following experts who contributed in their individual capacity:
Name
Co-convenors : Ms Veronica Chow

Mr Leong Kwai Yin
Members : DSP Anwar Bin Ali
Mr Tony Chee*
Ms Dahliyah Hamid
Mr Martinn Ho
Cpt Steve Koa Hean Kiong
Mr Terence Koh
Ms Liu Dan*
Ms Vivian Mak
Ms Edlin Maskor*
Mr Ooi Choon Wah*
Maj Thng Ting Mong
The late Mr Richard T Gillis
The organisations in which the experts of the Working Group are involved are:
Bayer (South East Asia) Pte Ltd

Celanese Pte Ltd
ExxonMobil Chemical Asia Pacific
Infineum Singapore Pte Ltd
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Ministry of Manpower
National Environment Agency
Singapore Chemical Industry Council Limited
Singapore Civil Defence Force
Singapore Police Force
* Left the organisation
The Working Group acknowledges the contributions of Mr Koh Chin Yong, Ms Quek Hui Leng,
Mr Tan Kia Tang, Mr Tan Teow Guan and Ms Wang Huijuan.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Contents
Page
Foreword 6
CLAUSES
1 Scope 8
2 References 8
3 Definitions 8
4 GHS classification 10
5 Cut off values / concentration limits 13
6 GHS labelling 13
7 Labelling requirements 16
8 Updating of SDS and label information 17
9 Training 17
ANNEX
A Use of safety data sheets (SDS) (informative) 18
TABLES
1 Physical hazard building blocks adoption 11

2 Health hazard building blocks adoption 12
3 Environmental hazard building blocks adoption 12
4 Cut-off values/concentration limits for each health and environmental
hazard class 13
5 GHS pictograms 14
6 Dimensions of GHS labels 16
FIGURE
1 Role of SDS in the various components of a chemical hazard control programme 19
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Foreword
This Singapore Standard was prepared by the Working Group appointed by the Technical Committee
on Chemistry under the purview of the Chemical Standards Committee. The SS 586 series of
standards is the result of the revision of SS 286 : 1984, ‘Caution labelling for hazardous substances’
(5 parts) and CP 98 : 2003, ‘Preparation and use of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)’.
The Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals and dangerous goods
comprises the following three parts, which are complementary to one another:
Part 1 : Transport and storage of dangerous goods,
Part 2 : Globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals – Singapore’s

adaptations, and
Part 3 : Preparation of Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
SS 586 : Part 1 provides information and guidance on the classification of dangerous goods by the
types of hazards they present. It also provides information on standard hazard communication labels.
This part applies to the storage and transportation of dangerous goods by road in Singapore, which
includes carriages in bulk, tank-vehicles, vehicles with demountable tanks as well as by vehicles
carrying dangerous goods in packages. The transportation of dangerous goods by sea and air is
subject to the requirements of International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and International Air
Transport Association (IATA) / International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) respectively and is not
covered in this standard.
SS 586 : Parts 2 and 3 provide guidance for the implementation of the Globally Harmonised System
of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) and Preparation of Safety Data Sheets in
Singapore. GHS is an international system for the classification of chemicals by the types of hazards
they present. It provides information on standard hazard communication elements including labels
and SDS. The GHS helps to ensure that information on physical hazards, health hazards and
environmental hazards from chemicals is made available, in order to enhance the protection of
human health and the environment during the handling, transport, and use of these chemicals. The
GHS also provides for the global harmonisation of rules and regulations on the classification, labelling
and SDS of chemicals.
In preparing this part of the Singapore Standard, reference was made to the Globally Harmonised
System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS Purple Book, revision 2) published by the
United Nations. The GHS document may be obtained by:
1. Purchasing directly from the United Nations (https://unp.un.org/) as a book or a CD. The
ISBN Number is available from the United Nations internet site
(http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_pubdet.html)
2. Downloading from the internet as pdf files

(http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev02/02files_e.html).
This standard is expected to be used by chemical manufacturers, importers, suppliers, users, and
supply chain service providers. The national competent authorities such as the Agri-Food and
Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA), Health Sciences Authority (HSA), Ministry of Health (MOH),
Ministry of Manpower (MOM), National Environment Agency (NEA), Singapore Civil Defence Force
(SCDF) and Singapore Police Force (SPF) may use this standard to supplement their regulations
and / or guidelines.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this Singapore Standard may be the
subject of patent rights. SPRING Singapore shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all of
such patent rights.
NOTE
1. Singapore Standards are subject to periodic review to keep abreast of technological changes and new
technical developments. The changes in Singapore Standards are documented through the issue of either
amendments or revisions.
2. Compliance with a Singapore Standard does not exempt users from legal obligations.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals

and dangerous goods – Part 2 : Globally harmonised system of
classification and labelling of chemicals – Singapore’s adaptations
1 Scope
This Singapore Standard adopts the United Nations Globally Harmonised System of Classification
and Labelling of Chemicals, which provides an international system for the classification of chemicals
by the types of hazards that they present. It also specifies standard hazard communication elements
including labels and safety data sheets.
The GHS helps to ensure that information on physical hazards, health hazards and environmental
hazards from chemicals is made available, in order to enhance the protection of human health and
the environment during the handling, transport, and use, of these chemicals.
The GHS provides for the global harmonisation of rules and regulations on the classification and
labelling of chemicals as well as hazard communication about chemicals.
The GHS is adapted by Singapore for the classification and labelling of chemicals in Singapore and for
their use in international trade.
This standard provides guidance for the implementation of the GHS in Singapore.
2 References
2.1 GHS reference document
The Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals is hereby referred to as
“GHS” or the “Purple Book” in this standard. The document is indispensable for the application of this
standard. For dated reference, only the edition cited applies. For undated reference, the latest edition of
the document (including any amendments) applies.
2.2 Informative reference
The use of safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals which are intended to provide hazard
information to users of the chemicals can be found in Annex A.
3 Definitions
For the purpose of this standard, the following definitions shall apply.
3.1 Chemical
Includes substance or preparation (mixture).
3.2 Dangerous goods
Substances or articles that may present an immediate and severe danger during transport. They are
determined to present one or more of the dangers represented by Classes 1 to 9 and Divisions and, if
applicable, the degree of danger on the basis of the requirements in Chapters 2.1 to 2.9 of the
UNRTDG.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
3.3 Exposure control
The full range of precautionary measures to protect the user of a chemical product.
3.4 Hazard
A potential source of harm.
3.5 Ingredient
A constituent of a chemical product.
3.6 Mixture/Preparation
An intentional mixture or solution composed of two or more substances, in which they do not react.
A mixture includes alloys. An alloy is a metallic material, homogeneous on a macroscopic scale,

consisting of two or more elements so combined that they cannot be readily separated by mechanical
means. Alloys are considered to be mixtures for the purpose of classification under the GHS.
NOTE – The word ‘mixture’ is used in the USA and Canada. The word ‘preparation’ is used in Europe.
3.7 Recipient
Party receiving a chemical product for industrial or professional use, such as storage, handling,
processing or packaging, from a supplier.
3.8 Risk
The probable rate of occurrence of a hazard causing harm, and the degree of severity of the harm.
3.9 Safety
Freedom from unacceptable risk of harm.
3.10 Shall
Indicates that a statement is mandatory.
3.11 Should
Indicates a recommendation.
3.12 Substance
Chemical elements and their compounds in the natural state or obtained by any production process,
including any additive necessary to preserve the stability of the product and any impurities deriving
from the process used, but excluding any solvent which may be separated without affecting the
stability of the substance or changing its composition.
3.13 Supplier
A party responsible for making a chemical product available to a recipient; it includes manufacturer,
importer and distributor of chemicals.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
4 GHS classification
The manufacturer should classify their chemical products in accordance with the appropriate GHS
hazard classes and categories. Such information is required for SDS preparation and product
labelling. If the hazardous chemicals are not produced locally, it is the responsibility of the suppliers to
communicate with the overseas manufacturers to obtain the information before supplying the
chemicals to buyers or purchasers.
The GHS classification process considers the intrinsic hazardous properties of the chemicals and
classifies them in accordance with the various decision logic approaches which can be found in the
Purple Book. The process of classification is designed to be transparent with a clear distinction
between hazard classes and categories. For many hazard classes, the classification criteria are
semi-quantitative or qualitative and some expert judgement is required to interpret the information.
GHS classifies chemicals according to their physical, health and environmental hazards. For each of
these hazards, a chemical is assigned a hazard class according to its hazard nature, and a hazard
category according to hazard severity. There is no requirement under the GHS to generate test data
for any hazard class. Test data that are already generated under the existing systems should be
accepted when classifying chemicals under the GHS, thereby avoiding duplicate testing and the
unnecessary use of test animals.
4.1 Singapore’s adoption of building blocks approach
The GHS allows the national competent authorities to determine which part of the building blocks will
be applied. A hazard class or a hazard category within a hazard class is a building block. The GHS
building blocks adopted by Singapore are specified in the following subclauses and tables.
4.1.1 Physical hazard
There are 16 hazard classes under the physical hazard. Each hazard class is sub-divided into
different hazard categories. The physical hazard building blocks adopted by Singapore are shown in
Table 1.
4.1.2 Health hazard
There are 10 hazard classes under the health hazard. Each hazard class is sub-divided into different
hazard categories. The health hazard building blocks adopted by Singapore are shown in Table 2.
4.1.3 Environmental hazard
There is only one hazard class under the environmental hazard. This is sub-divided into different
hazard categories. The environmental hazard building blocks adopted by Singapore are shown in
Table 3.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Table 1 – Physical hazard building blocks adoption
Physical hazard class Physical hazard category

Unstable
Explosives Div 1.1 Div 1.2 Div 1.3 Div 1.4 Div 1.5 Div 1.6
explosives
Flammable gases Cat 1 Cat 2
Flammable aerosols Cat 1 Cat 2
Oxidising gases Cat 1
Compressed Liquefied Refrigerated Dissolved

Gases under pressure
gas gas liquefied gas gas
Flammable liquids Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3 Cat 4
(see NOTE)
Flammable solids Cat 1 Cat 2
Self-reactive substances Type Type

Type A Type B Type G
and mixtures C&D E&F
Pyrophoric liquids Cat 1
Pyrophoric solids Cat 1
Self-heating substances
Cat 1 Cat 2
and mixtures
Substances and
mixtures which, in
Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3
contact with water, emits
flammable gases
Oxidising liquids Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3
Oxidising solids Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3
Organic peroxides Type A Type B Type C & D Type E & F Type G
Corrosive to metals Cat 1
NOTE – Singapore adopts the GHS physical hazard classes and categories except for Flammable liquids
Category 4. The only chemical that is required to be classified under this category is diesel.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Table 2 – Health hazard building blocks adoption
Health hazard class Health hazard category
Cat 5
Acute toxicity Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3 Cat 4
(see NOTE 1)
Cat 1A Cat 1B Cat 1C Cat 3

Skin corrosion/irritation Cat 2
(see NOTE 2) (see NOTE 2) (see NOTE 2) (see NOTE 1)
Serious eye damage/eye Cat 1 Cat 2A Cat 2B

irritation (see NOTE 2) (see NOTE 2)
Respiratory or skin Respiratory

Skin sensitisation
sensitisation sensitisation
Cat 1
Cat 1
Germ cell mutagenicity Cat 1A Cat 1B Cat 2
Carcinogenicity Cat 1A Cat 1B Cat 2
Reproductive toxicity Cat 1A Cat 1B Cat 2 Lactation
Specific target organ toxicity Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3

(single exposure)
Specific target organ toxicity Cat 1 Cat 2

(repeated exposure)
Aspiration hazard Cat 1 Cat 2

(see NOTE 1)
NOTES
1) Singapore adopts the GHS health hazard classes and categories except the following:
 Acute toxicity Category 5;
 Skin corrosion / irritation Category 3;
 Aspiration hazard Category 2.
2) For the following hazard classes, it is not necessary to further classify them into sub-categories:
 Skin corrosion - Sub-categories 1A, 1B and 1C are merged into Cat 1.
 Serious eye damage/eye irritation - Sub-categories 2A and 2B are merged into Cat 2.
Table 3 – Environmental hazard building blocks adoption
Environmental hazard class Environmental hazard category

Hazardous to the aquatic environment Cat 2 Cat 3
Cat 1 (see NOTE)
– Acute toxicity (see NOTE)
Hazardous to the aquatic environment Cat 3 Cat 4

Cat 1 Cat 2
– Chronic toxicity (see NOTE) (see NOTE)
NOTE – Singapore adopts the GHS environmental hazard classes and categories except:
 Acute hazard to the aquatic environment Categories 2 and 3,
 Chronic hazard to the aquatic environment Categories 3 and 4
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
5 Cut-off values/concentration limits

For mixtures, GHS has cut-off values/concentration limits for certain ingredients above which an SDS
should be required. The adopted cut-off values/concentration limits for health and environmental
hazard classes requiring an SDS are specified in Table 4. SS 586 : Part 3 shall be referred to for the
application of these cut-off values/concentration limits.
During hazard classification, Chapters 2, 3 and 4 of the Purple Book should be referred to for each
hazard class and the required hazard communication / label elements (pictogram, signal word, hazard
statement and precautionary statement) are to be selected for each hazard class.
Table 4 – Cut-off values / concentration limits for each health and environmental hazard class
Hazard class and category Cut-off value / Concentration limit

Acute toxicity, category 1 - 3 ≥ 0.1%
Acute toxicity, category 4 ≥ 1.0%
Skin corrosion/irritation ≥ 1.0%
Serious eye damage/irritation ≥ 1.0%
Respiratory sensitisation ≥ 0.1%
Skin sensitisation ≥ 0.1%
Mutagenicity category 1 ≥ 0.1%
Mutagenicity category 2 ≥ 1.0%
Carcinogenicity ≥ 0.1%
Reproductive toxicity ≥ 0.1%
Specific target organ toxicity (single exposure) ≥ 1.0%
Specific target organ toxicity (repeated exposure) ≥ 1.0%
Hazardous to the aquatic environment ≥ 1.0%
NOTE – The above cut-off values / concentration limits for liquids and solids are expressed as weight percentage,
and those for gases are expressed as volume percentage.
6 GHS labelling
For chemicals which are classified as hazardous, their respective GHS labels shall be prepared by
the occupier of a factory to ensure hazard communication to the intended target audiences. Under
the GHS harmonised hazard communication system labelling and safety data sheet (SDS), which is
described in SS 586 : Part 3 and are among the most important elements. Labelling via the use of
pre-assigned pictogram, signal word, hazard and precautionary statements, is to convey information
about each of the hazard classes and categories to the target audience. The target audiences who
need to understand the GHS labelling system include workplace employers and employees, transport
workers, and emergency responders.
The label elements and other information required on a GHS label are as follows:
a) Product identifier;
b) Pictogram;
c) Signal words;
d) Hazard statement(s);
e) Precautionary statement(s);
f) Supplier information;
g) Supplementary information.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
6.1 Product identifier
Product identifier is the chemical identity of the chemical. It should be used on a GHS label and
should match the product identifier on the SDS. Product identifier provides the target audiences
means to identify the chemical.
6.2 Pictogram
Pictogram conveys physical, health or environmental hazard that is assigned to a GHS hazard class
and category. Pictograms include the harmonised hazard symbols plus other graphic elements, such
as borders, background patterns or colours. Table 5 shows the nine GHS pictograms.
When a GHS pictogram appears on a label of a packaging which will not be exported, the suppliers
may choose to use a black border on the pictogram instead of the red border recommended in GHS.
Table 5 – GHS pictograms
Flame Flame over circle Exploding bomb
 Emits flammable gas  Oxidisers  Explosives

 Flammables  Organic peroxide
 Self-heating  Self-reactives
 Self-reactives
 Organic peroxide
 Pyrophorics
Corrosion Skull and crossbones Gas cylinder
 Corrosives  Acute toxicity (severe)  Gases under pressure
Health Environment Exclamation mark
 Aspiration toxicity  Environmental toxicity  Acute toxicity (harmful)

 Carcinogenicity  Irritant
 Germ cell mutagenicity  Narcotic effects
 Target organ toxicity  Respiratory tract irritation
 Respiratory sensitiser  Skin sensitiser
 Reproductive toxicity
For hazardous chemicals classified in more than one hazard class, the following rules of precedence
for the allocation of symbols apply:
a) For physical hazard class, the precedence of symbol should follow the rules of the UN Model
Regulations.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
b) For health hazard class, the following principles of precedence apply:
i) If the skull and cross bones symbol applies, the exclamation mark symbol should not
appear.
ii) If the corrosion symbol applies, the exclamation mark symbol should not appear
where it is used for skin or eye irritation.
iii) If the health hazard symbol appears for respiratory sensitisation, the exclamation
mark symbol should not appear where it is used for skin sensitisation or for skin or
eye irritation.
c) Where there is more than one hazard pictogram for the same hazard class, the hazard
pictogram corresponding to the most severe hazard category should apply.
6.3 Signal words
Signal words are used to indicate the relative hazard severity and alert readers to a potential hazard.
“Danger” is used for a more severe hazard while “Warning” is used for a less severe hazard. If the
signal word “Danger” applies, the signal word “Warning” should not appear.
6.4 Hazard statements
Hazard statements are phrases assigned to a hazard class and category that describe the nature as
well as the degree of hazard of a chemical. All hazard statements should be used on the label if the
chemical possesses more than one hazard unless there is evidence of duplication or redundancy.
6.5 Precautionary statements
These statements describe the recommended measures that should be taken to minimise or prevent
adverse effects resulting from exposure/ or improper storage/handling of a hazardous chemical.
There are five types of precautionary statements: general, prevention, response, storage and
disposal.
However, the number of precautionary statements should be kept to a maximum of six, unless
necessary as a consequence of the severity of the hazard.
Priority for selection of precautionary statements:
a) The precautionary statements for the higher hazard category hierarchy take priority over the
lower category in all hazard classes. Generally, the prevention precautionary statements that
can minimise the risk level to as low as possible should be selected preferentially.
b) For response precautionary statements, those that indicate immediate action should also be
selected.
c) General and disposal precautionary statements may only be necessary when the chemical is
to be sold to the general public.
d) A combination of statements can save label space and improve their readability, and will also
be useful for different types of hazard where the precautionary behaviour is similar.
e) Omission of the statements should not lower the level of protection in relation to hazards.
6.6 Supplier information
This is the name, address and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier of the chemical.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
6.7 Supplementary information
Supplementary information should be provided by the supplier to include additional useful information
on the chemical at his discretion. Such supplementary information should not lead to variation or
undermine the GHS hazard information.
For agriculture chemicals in Singapore, the competent authority AVA requires supplementary labelling
information such as relevant hazard, caution statements and graphic symbols, recommended by the
WHO/FAO Hazard Classification Code, as well as other information as required under the Second
Schedule of the Control of Plants (Registration of Pesticides) Rules.
In order to register formulated pesticides with NEA (Vectors Control), NEA requires the formulated
pesticides to be of World Health Organisation (WHO) Class III hazards or less hazardous than Class
III. Supplementary labelling information can be found in the Guidebook to the Registration of Public
Health Pesticides and Repellents against Vectors.
7 Labelling requirements
Where a substance or mixture is classified as hazardous and contained in a packaging/container, it
shall be labelled by the occupier of a factory.
Employers and employees need to know the hazards specific to the hazardous chemicals, and the
hazards associated with their use, handling, presence, or storage at the workplace.
A GHS label shall be prepared using all the elements of GHS label as described in Clause 6.
7.1 Dimensions of GHS labels
The recommended dimensions of GHS labels are in Table 6.
Table 6 – Dimensions of GHS labels
Capacity of container Dimensions (in millimetres)

Not exceeding 3 litres If possible, at least 52 x 74
Greater than 3 litres but not exceeding 50 litres At least 74 x 105
Greater than 50 litres but not exceeding 500 litres At least 105 x 148
Greater than 500 litres At least 148 x 210
7.2 Alternative means for labelling
Employers may use alternative means of giving employees the same information in a different written
or displayed format when the GHS label is not practicable for the container and the alternative format
can communicate the information as effectively as the GHS label.
7.3 Small containers
All small containers that are used to store chemicals, even temporarily, shall be labelled. The label
shall contain sufficient information that any person inspecting the container may identify what is inside
it. If small containers are impracticable to be labelled, they should be tagged with a label or by other
means, such as cross-referencing to SDS.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
8 Updating of SDS and label information

Within six months after receiving the new information that necessitates a revision to SDS and/or
labels for a chemical, the suppliers and occupier of a factory shall update the SDS and/or the label
respectively.
When a chemical is subject to the transport of dangerous goods requirements, the transport label
used shall also be updated on receipt of the new information.
Every five years, suppliers of chemicals shall review the information on which the SDS and label for a
chemical is based, even if no new or significant information has been provided to them regarding that
chemical.
9 Training
Employers shall understand the specific hazards associated with the chemicals and the safety and
health risks involved in a workplace. These hazards and risks shall be communicated to employees
through effective training.
The training should include:
a) The use of chemical identifiers together with GHS pictograms, signal words, hazard
statements and precautionary statements used on labels;
b) The use of plant documentation, such as process flow charts, that identifies the chemicals
contained in pipes and vessels;
c) The location of SDS for raw materials and products, as well as for intermediate streams, if
these are available;
d) The use of signs with hazard information in the plant. This would include GHS information,
colour coding, etc., on piping systems and processing equipment;
e) The use of permanent labelling for fixed piping; and
f) The systems used for labelling batch mixing vessel equipment.
See A.3 for training on use of SDS.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Annex A
(Informative)
Use of safety data sheets (SDS)

(NOTE – For details of the sections mentioned in this annex, refer to SS 586 : Part 3)
A.1 Role of SDS in chemical hazard control

The SDS provides the following information for the users of the chemical.
a) Hazard classification of the chemical;

b) Safety, health and environmental risks;
c) Normal and emergency handling recommendations;
d) Personal protective equipment;
e) Permissible Exposure Levels (PEL);
f) Toxicological and ecotoxicological information;
g) Stability and reactivity of the chemical;
h) Regulatory information applicable to the chemical;
i) Labelling information;
j) Transportation classification;
k) Basis for hazard communication.
The SDS is an important part of the overall chemical hazard control and management programme. In
order to fully comply with all the requirements, hazard communication should be made the central
focus of such a programme.
Effective hazard communication would ensure that employees obtain proper and sufficient information
to understand the hazard, to follow correct safe work practices, and to use protective measures to
prevent health hazards.
Hazard communication should have the following elements:
i) Appoint a person to be responsible for compiling and maintaining the master SDS file and to
distribute additional copies as requested.
ii) Inventory – Factory occupiers should compile a list of all the chemicals used in their
premises. The list should indicate the product or chemical names, quantity stored and
locations where the chemicals are stored or used.
NOTE – The product names in the inventory should match those in the SDS.
iii) Review and evaluation of SDS obtained / compiled.
iv) Labelling of all chemical containers.
v) Appoint a person-in-charge to check and maintain chemical labelling.
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SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
A.2 Use of SDS

SDS is an important source of information on the chemicals that are stored or used in the workplace.
As such, it occupies a central position in the implementation of an overall chemical hazard control
programme. The diagram below illustrates the role of SDS in the various components of a chemical
hazard control programme.
Hygiene/
Environmental
Emergency Assessment Hazard
Response Identification
Planning
Hazard
Training SDS Assessment
Chemical Control
Management Measures
Chemical
Labelling / Signs
Figure 1 – Role of SDS in the various components of a chemical hazard control programme
A.2.1 Hazard identification
Factory occupiers should anticipate potential hazards when dealing with chemicals. For new factories
this could be done at the planning stage when processes are designed, and equipment or machinery
specifications are drafted.
When anticipating or identifying chemical hazards, the SDS of potential chemicals that are being
considered for use can be a useful tool in decision making. The SDS of all potential chemicals should
be obtained from the suppliers so that a thorough evaluation of the hazards they pose can be carried
out. The following information checklists are useful to factory occupiers when deciding which
chemicals should be purchased:
Section 2: Hazard identification – What are the types of hazards associated with the chemical? Are
they acceptable within the context of the proposed process and nature of the factory’s operations?
Section 3: Composition/information on ingredients – Are there any hazardous substances in the

product?
Section 8: Exposure control / personal protection – What are the engineering control measures
recommended in the SDS? Are they suitable for the process in which the chemical is to be used? Is
it economically viable to provide such controls? Would an alternative chemical or process be better?
Are the PPE recommended suitable for the process and the working environment of the factory?
Section 9: Physical and chemical properties – Are the conditions under which the chemical is to be
used compatible with the physical and chemical characteristics of the product? For example, a
solvent with a high vapour pressure used for liquid degreasing at elevated temperatures might result
in large amounts of the solvent being vapourised leading to economic loss, potential fire hazard,
inhalation hazard and excessive vapour emissions.
19
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Section 11: Toxicological information – What are the potential health effects and the possible routes
of exposure? Would the use of this product in the proposed process be incompatible or would it
generate new / additional hazards? For example, a chemical in powder form could release respirable
dust particles if used in an open dry mixing process.
Section 13: Disposal considerations – Are the disposal methods suitable in the local context? For
example, disposal via landfill might not be suitable for a land scarce country like Singapore.
The sections listed above illustrate some typical ways in which information in an SDS may be used in
hazard anticipation or identification. This list is not exhaustive and all the other sections may be
relevant or useful and should also be studied to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the nature
of the chemical.
A.2.2 Hazard assessment
Once a chemical has been selected for use in a factory, the actual degree of risk involved in its
handling should be ascertained. This would involve qualitative and quantitative measures of the
hazard posed to employees and the environment. After anticipating and identifying the likely hazards
relating to the use of a chemical, a factory occupier should then follow up by setting up a programme
to assess and monitor the specific parameters. This is to ensure that the potential hazards that have
been identified do not manifest as real problems. Information contained in the SDS could also be of
use at this stage.
Section 8: Exposure control / personal protection – Does the chemical have an established
Permissible Exposure Level? If not, has the supplier recommended an exposure standard that could
be used as a reference?
Section 9: Physical and chemical properties – Are the conditions under which the chemical is being
used likely to aggravate the associated hazard? For example, a highly volatile flammable liquid with a
low flash point should not be used in an area where there are possible sources of ignition.
Section 11: Toxicological information – Are there any suitable biological indicators relating to the
health effects of the chemical? Can these indicators be included in a regular medical examination
programme for employees who are exposed?
Section 12: Ecological information – Are there any suitable environmental markers that could be
used to monitor the effects of the chemicals on the environment?
The information in the SDS should serve as a good starting point for most factory occupiers to
formulate a hazard assessment and monitoring programme. Information such as those listed above
should be supplemented with data from other sources, for example, books, journals and other
relevant standards.
A.2.3 Hazard control
The most crucial step in a chemical hazard control programme would be to prevent or mitigate the
effects of the chemical on employees and the environment. Here, the information found in an SDS is
again useful as a starting point in considering possible control options.
The information provided in Section 8 (Exposure controls / personal protection) plays a very important
role. It acts as a guide to users (especially inexperienced users), on what control measures would be
suitable for the product. Based on this recommendation, factory occupiers should then proceed to
draw up detailed designs to control the hazard.
Other sections that would be useful when considering control options would be:
Section 7: Handling and storage

Section 9: Physical and chemical properties
20
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Section 10: Stability and reactivity

Section 11: Toxicological information
Section 12: Ecological information
Section 13: Disposal considerations
Section 15: Regulatory information
A.3 Training
A person should be appointed to co-ordinate and maintain records of employee hazard
communication training.
Employees on new assignments should attend the hazard communication training class. Periodic
refresher courses should be provided at least once every three years.
Attendance at such training should be taken and records maintained. The hazard communication
training should cover the following areas:
a) Chemicals in the workplace and their hazards;
b) Prevention or minimising of exposure to these chemicals (e.g. safe work procedures);
c) Responsibilities of factory occupier in controlling or mitigating employees’ exposure to

hazardous substances;
d) Procedures to follow if they are exposed to such chemicals;
e) Locating SDS and the person to contact for additional copies;
f) Reading and interpreting labels and SDS.
Before any new hazardous substances are introduced into the workplace, hazard communication
training should be given to all employees who may be exposed to the chemicals.
A.4 Evaluation of an SDS

The quality of an SDS will usually vary from supplier to supplier. It is therefore important for the user
to be able to evaluate an SDS. The SDS should contain adequate and accurate information as laid
down in this standard. However, one of the most common problems facing factory occupiers is the
lack of technical ability to check the contents in an SDS. The checklist below should act as an aid for
factory occupiers to evaluate the SDS provided to them by chemical suppliers.
a) Is the SDS complete? Are there any missing pages?
b) Is the SDS in the standard GHS format?
c) Are there any sections that are left blank?
d) Is the product name found in the SDS consistent with that found on the product label?
e) Is the supplier information correct?
f) Is the SDS current? What is the date found on the SDS? Be wary of ‘old’ SDS and check
with the supplier for the latest version.
21
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
g) Is the information included in each section consistent with the information in other sections?
For example, is a high vapour pressure value indicated in the section on physical and
chemical properties properly reflected by appropriate comments in the section on
toxicological information with regards to inhalation hazard?
h) Is the information included on the SDS accurately reflecting the data available and the
assessors’ knowledge? Spot-check on information such as boiling point, flash point, PEL.
etc.
i) For mixtures, is the composition of ingredients listed?
j) Are there trade secret ingredients in the product? If so, can the suppliers be easily contacted
(e.g. via the telephone, e-mail)? Are they co-operative / prompt in providing additional
information on the product?
22
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
SPRING SINGAPORE
SPRING's mission is to enhance the competitiveness of enterprises for a vibrant Singapore economy.
We work to nurture a pro-business environment that encourages enterprise formation and growth,
facilitate the growth of industries, enhance productivity & innovation and capabilities of enterprises,
and help increase access to markets and business opportunities. Our vision is to nurture a host of
dynamic and innovative Singapore enterprises.
Strategic Thrust 1: Nurture a pro-business environment that encourages enterprise formation

and growth
SPRING takes on the role of a steward to nurture a pro-business environment. In this role, SPRING
helps to ensure that there is a conducive environment for enterprises to form, compete and grow.
SPRING promotes the review and removal of rules and regulations that stifle enterprises. It also
facilitates enterprise access to key factor inputs like land, labour, technology and finance.
Strategic Thrust 2: Facilitate the growth of industries
SPRING adopts an integrated cluster development approach in enhancing the vibrancy and
competitiveness of selected industries.
Strategic Thrust 3: Enhance productivity & innovation and capabilities of enterprises
SPRING helps enterprises to enhance their productivity & innovation and capabilities. These include
equipping enterprises with capabilities to upgrade their know-how, and creating conditions that
encourage a productivity & innovation and service focus in enterprises. Focused assistance will be
provided for promising enterprises.
Strategic Thrust 4: Increase access to markets and business opportunities
SPRING helps enterprises gain access to markets by reducing technical barriers to trade, providing
quality assurance for Singapore products/services and linking local enterprises to business
opportunities, both locally and overseas.
SPRING Singapore
Singapore 159835
Tel: 6278 6666
Fax: 6278 6667
E-mail: queries@spring.gov.sg
Website: http://www.spring.gov.sg
ABOUT THE NATIONAL STANDARDISATION PROGRAMME
SPRING is also the national standards body in Singapore. Under the national standardisation
programme, SPRING Singapore helps companies and industry to meet international standards and
conformity requirements by creating awareness of the importance of standardisation to enhance
competitiveness and improve productivity, co-ordinating the development and use of Singapore
Standards and setting up an information infrastructure to educate companies and industry on the
latest developments.
SPRING Singapore is vested with the authority to appoint a Standards Council to advise on the
preparation, publication and promulgation of Singapore Standards and Technical References and
their implementation.
23
SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008
Singapore Standards are in the form of specifications for materials and products, codes of practice,
methods of test, nomenclature, services, etc. The respective standards committee will draw up the
standards before seeking final approval from the Standards Council. To ensure adequate
representation of all viewpoints in the preparation of Singapore Standards, all committees appointed
consist of representatives from various interest groups which include government agencies,
professional bodies, tertiary institutions and consumer, trade and manufacturing organisations.
Technical References are transition documents developed to help meet urgent industry demand for
specifications or requirements on a particular product, process or service in an area where there is an
absence of reference standards. Unlike Singapore Standards, they are issued for comments over a
period of two years before assessment on their suitability for approval as Singapore Standards. All
comments are considered when a technical reference is reviewed at the end of two years to
determine the feasibility of its transition to a Singapore Standard. Technical References can
therefore become Singapore Standards after two years, continue as Technical References for further
comments or be withdrawn.
In the international arena, SPRING Singapore represents Singapore in the International Organisation
of Standardisation (ISO), the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Sub-committee for
Standards and Conformance (SCSC) and in the ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and
Quality (ACCSQ). The Singapore National Committee of the International Electrotechnical
Commission which is supported by SPRING Singapore, represents Singapore in the IEC.
24

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Licensed by SPRING Singapore to HAKEEM/MR, NA

Singapore Standards eShop Order No: 6800019545/Downloaded:2012-05-29

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this Singapore

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

First published, 2008

Chairman : Dr Peter Chan Ping Kwong Member, Standards Council

Chairman : Dr Teo Khay Chuan Individual Capacity

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

Members : Maj Thng Ting Mong / Singapore Civil Defence Force

Co-convenors : Ms Veronica Chow

Bayer (South East Asia) Pte Ltd

* Left the organisation

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

A Use of safety data sheets (SDS) (informative) 18

1 Physical hazard building blocks adoption 11

1 Role of SDS in the various components of a chemical hazard control programme 19

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

Part 1 : Transport and storage of dangerous goods,

Part 2 : Globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals – Singapore’s

Part 3 : Preparation of Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

2. Downloading from the internet as pdf files

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals

2.1 GHS reference document

2.2 Informative reference

Includes substance or preparation (mixture).

3.2 Dangerous goods

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

3.3 Exposure control

A potential source of harm.

A constituent of a chemical product.

A mixture includes alloys. An alloy is a metallic material, homogeneous on a macroscopic scale,

Freedom from unacceptable risk of harm.

Indicates that a statement is mandatory.

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

4.1 Singapore’s adoption of building blocks approach

4.1.1 Physical hazard

4.1.2 Health hazard

4.1.3 Environmental hazard

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008

Table 1 – Physical hazard building blocks adoption

Physical hazard class Physical hazard category

Flammable gases Cat 1 Cat 2

Flammable aerosols Cat 1 Cat 2

Oxidising gases Cat 1

Compressed Liquefied Refrigerated Dissolved

Flammable solids Cat 1 Cat 2

Self-reactive substances Type Type

Pyrophoric liquids Cat 1

Pyrophoric solids Cat 1

Oxidising liquids Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3

Oxidising solids Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 3

Organic peroxides Type A Type B Type C & D Type E & F Type G

Corrosive to metals Cat 1

SS 586 : Part 2 : 2008