Abstract
The use of chemical products to enhance and improve life is a widespread worldwide practice. Alongside the benefits of these products, there is also the potential of chemicals for adverse effects to people or the environment. As a result, a number of countries or organizations have developed laws or regulations over the years that require information to be prepared and transmitted to those using chemicals, through labels or Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Their differences are significant enough to result in different labels or SDS for the same product in different countries. In July 2003, United Nations (UN) recommended the globally harmonized system of classification and labelling of chemicals (GHS). We, special committee of Japanese Society of Occupational and Environmental Allergy proposed a guideline for prevention of allergic occupational asthma and sensitizers (n=60) causing occupational asthma or contact dermatitis in conformity with respiratory and skin sensitization criteria of GHS. We should propose these 60 sensitizers to the chemical industry association and governments to control, regulate and label them in each country.