hazard classification system

Various governing agencies may have jurisdiction over a chemical requiring an MSDS. These governing agencies define systems for classifying chemical based on their risk and health effects. For example the following are hazard classification systems:

HMIS (Hazardous Materials Identification System) is a numerical hazard rating that incorporates the use of labels with color-coded bars as well as training materials. It was developed by the National Paint & Coatings Association (NPCA) as a compliance aid for the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.
GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) was developed by the United Nations for providing consistent guidelines that all countries can use in classifying and labeling hazardous materials.
67/548/EEC is the classification system of the Dangerous Substances Directive of the European Union.

A hazard classification system can have up to two sub-levels: classes, which in turn are composed of categories. For example the GHIS classification system, includes the Physical, Health, and Environmental classes. These classes, in turn, have categories; for example,

the GHIS Environmental class has categories of: Acute Aquatic, Long-Term Aquatic, Acute Ozone, Long-Term Ozone.
the GHIS Physical Hazards class has categories that further define hazard materials, such as Flammable liquids Category 1, or Explosives Div 1.1. .

In ARCHIBUS, you can enter as many hazard classification systems as required by your reporting needs.