Joint Order No. A/356/396 of the Minister of Environment, Green Development and Tourism, and the Minister of Health and Sports validating the classification of toxic and hazardous chemical substances.

This Joint Order primarily addresses the classification and regulation of chemical substances, specifically chemical hazards, hazardous substances, and their respective categories, as well as the procedures for their classification, labelling, and handling. It operates within the legal framework related to hazardous chemicals, aligning with international standards such as the UN's recommendations and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). The policy goal is to establish a comprehensive system for the safe management of chemical hazards, including classification, labelling, and risk communication, to protect human health and the environment. Key measures outlined include the categorization of chemicals into hazard classes such as explosive, flammable, oxidizing, toxic, and environmentally hazardous, with specific hazard codes, symbols, and precautionary statements. The document details the use of hazard symbols, signal words, and hazard statements, emphasizing the importance of proper labelling and the application of safety measures. It also specifies the procedures for the classification of chemicals based on their physical, health, and environmental hazards, and the requirements for safety data sheets and labelling to ensure clear communication of hazards to stakeholders. Implementation mechanisms involve the use of standardized hazard symbols, codes, and precautionary statements, with responsibilities assigned to manufacturers, importers, and distributors to ensure compliance. The document emphasizes the importance of hazard communication through labels and safety data sheets, and the need for adherence to international standards. It also highlights the procedures for the classification and labelling of a wide range of chemicals, including specific chemical substances and their derivatives, with an emphasis on safety and environmental protection, as part of the national chemical safety management system.