Costa Rica
RTCR 478:2015 and RTCR 481:2015

How is the GHS implemented
in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica implements the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) through Costa Rica's Technical Regulations (RTCR) 478:2015 on Hazardous Chemicals, Registration, Importation and Control, and RTCR 481:2015 on Hazardous Chemicals – Labeling. The objective of both is to protect human health and the environment by determining the requirements and procedures for registering, controlling, importing, and preparing SDSs and labels for hazardous chemicals.

What are RTCR 478:2015 and 481:2015?

Costa Rica implements the sixth edition of the GHS through RTCR 478:2015 and RTCR 481:2015.

RTCR 478:2015 came into force on May 3, 2018, and regulates the classification and preparation of SDS for hazardous substances. RTCR 481:2015 came into force on December 30, 2017, and requires labeling for chemicals used in the workplace and by suppliers. Both are currently mandatory.

The regulatory body for RTCR 478:2015 and RTCR 481:2015 is the Ministry of Health.

The aforementioned RTCRs apply to hazardous chemicals in general, although certain categories of products are excluded, such as cosmetics; drugs; pesticides for domestic and professional use; fertilizers for domestic use; chemical, biological, or related substances for agricultural use; products that emit ionizing radiation; gases for use on people or animals; tobacco; products used to purify water; among others.

What are the most important points of RTCRs?

• Both the SDS and label must be written in Spanish.
• The SDS must follow the 16-section format of the GHS.
  • In addition, according to the guidelines in Annex I of RTCR 478:2015, the SDS must be reviewed every 5 years.
• The label must contain at least the following elements: product and manufacturer identification; batch number and health registration number; net content; warning words; pictograms; H and P phrases; emergency telephone number of the national poison control center; list of hazardous ingredients including chemical name and percentage concentration; instructions for use.
  • Whenever necessary, include and highlight in bold format the following statements: “In case of poisoning, consult a doctor and provide this label” and “Keep out of reach of children.”

What other chemical regulatory requirements apply in Costa Rica?

• RTCR 478/2015 establishes the requirements and protocols for the registration, importation, and control of chemicals in Costa Rica. Specifically, entities interested in conducting business in Costa Rica involving both hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals, must apply for the “Certificate of Free Sale of Hazardous Chemicals.” This certificate is requested from the Ministry of Health.
  • According to RTCR 478/2015, chemical products are divided into two categories depending on whether or not they have a CAS identifier. The registration of hazardous chemicals with or without CAS is mandatory in order to correctly prepare and evaluate the SDS and label.
  • If the entity wishing to register is foreign, it must appoint a legal representative residing in Costa Rica to carry out the registration.
• Decree No. 44741-S-MAG, which establishes the Regulations for the Prevention, Preparedness, and Response to Chemical Accidents, entered into force on May 9, 2025. It states that establishments that handle chemicals or their waste are required to classify their risk and follow the provisions mentioned in the Decree to protect public health and the environment.
• For the transport of dangerous goods, Costa Rica follows the United Nations Recommendations.
• Pesticides are regulated by RTCR 484:2016 of 2017. The labeling of pesticides is governed by Central American Technical Regulation (RTCA) 65.03.57:10.
• Cosmetics are governed by RTCA 71.03.35:21, which came into force in 2024. In addition, for the correct labeling of cosmetic products in Costa Rica, it is necessary to consider Resolution No. 467-2022 (COMIECO-C) of 2022 and RTCA 71:03.36:21.
• Detergents are regulated by RTCA 71.03.37:07, and their labeling is governed by RTCA 71.03.38:07.

To ensure compliance with legislation it is important to have an effective tool.

SIAM offers Chemeter, an intuitive and user-friendly software software that automatically generates safety data sheets (SDS), e-FDS, ADR documentation, PCN dossiers and sector-specific documentation in accordance with the requirements of each country. So you can keep your documents up to date and comply with current regulations easily and effectively.

Experience Chemeter in action. Request your free demo and see how it simplifies compliance for your business.