GHS Classification Guidance for the Japanese Government

The classification criteria refer to kinematic viscosity. The conversion formula between
dynamic viscosity and kinematic viscosity is indicated below.
Dynamic viscosity (mPa･s) / Density (g/cm 3 ) = Kinematic viscosity (mm 2 /s)
(4)Guidance for classification and judgment
A) Background of this item and points to be noted
As for background of this item, refer to Part 1, Introduction.
In classification, take the following points into account.
* Unless a description that definitely denies hazards or recognizes extremely low hazards
is available in List 1, the determination of “Not classified” should be performed
carefully. If there is any question, a given substance should rather be classified in
“Classification not possible” due to insufficient information for judgment.
* If data are available only for a mixture, the mixture itself is classified, and this shall be
stated in "Grounds".
B)Regarding classification procedure
1) A substance meeting [Decision Criteria 1a] or [Decision Criteria 1b] shall be placed in
Category 1.
[Decision Criteria 1a]: A document in List 1 or List 2 contains a description to the effect that
human chemical pneumonia was caused by accidental aspiration.
(Note)
a) Any kinematic viscosity shall not be considered.
b) Liquids and solids, not gases, are subject to classification. Since aspiration hazard
concerns, not aspiration of substances suspended in gas phase, accidental aspiration
of liquids and solids, aerosol/dust/mist substances are judged by referring to the UN
GHS second revised edition 3.10.1.6.4 and considering nature of substances,
performance of the containers in which the substances are provided (spray can, etc.),
etc. (Substances aspirated into respiratory tract/respiratory system while suspended in
gas phase are placed in “Not applicable”.).
[Decision Criteria 1b]: A substance which is a hydrocarbon and has kinematic viscosity of
20.5 mm 2 /s or less at 40℃.
(Note)
a) The existence or absence of human evidence shall not be considered.
b) Viscosity depends on temperature, and that of liquids generally become smaller as
temperature rises. Therefore, as for liquids, the substance with kinematic viscosity of
20.5 mm 2 /s or less at ambient temperature is placed in Category 1. Since, however,
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