Jordan implements new chemical labelling standards for enhanced safety

JORDAN – Jordan rolled out a new chemical labelling regulation, DJS 990:2024, to improve safety in handling chemical substances and mixtures. 

According to the Jordan Standards and Metrology Organization (JSMO), which finalized the standard on December 30, 2024, labels must now include hazard symbols, warning words, precautionary statements, and supplier details.

 Additionally, the labels’ details must be provided in both Arabic and English, ensuring clear communication of risks to all users.

The regulation aligns with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System (GHS), an international framework for standardizing chemical classification and labelling. 

“This standard strengthens our commitment to safer chemical handling and global trade compliance,” a JSMO spokesperson said. 

The DJS 990:2024 applies to most chemical substances and mixtures but excludes radioactive materials, veterinary medicines, food, cosmetics, and medical devices, consistent with GHS guidelines.

Labels must display chemical identifiers, hazard and precautionary statements, signal words such as “Danger,” supplier information, nominal quantity, production and expiration dates when applicable, and the country of origin. 

To ensure visibility, the standard specifies minimum label and pictogram sizes based on container volume. 

For containers up to 3 liters, labels must measure at least 52 x 74 mm with pictograms of 10–16 mm. 

For larger containers exceeding 500 liters, labels must be at least 148 x 210 mm with pictograms of 46 mm or larger, ensuring legibility.

A recent report from a Middle Eastern chemical safety conference in August 2025 noted that Jordan’s new standard has spurred discussions in neighbouring countries to update their own labelling regulations, potentially fostering regional consistency in chemical safety protocols.

This could simplify cross-border trade for manufacturers.

Manufacturers and importers face the task of updating labelling practices to comply with DJS 990:2024, with non-compliance risking delays at customs or restricted market access.

 A Jordan-based chemical supplier reported that companies are spending between US$50,000 and US$100,000 to redesign labels and train staff. 

The JSMO has pledged to support businesses during this transition, offering compliance guidance. 

One industry executive emphasized the importance of the change, stating that clear labelling reduces workplace accidents and improves consumer safety. 

Jordan’s adoption of this standard marks a significant step toward safer chemical management and alignment with international safety norms, potentially influencing regional regulatory trends.

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