NFPA Labels

Items in confined spaces may contain National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) labels. NFPA labels classify chemicals according to the hazards they present. These labels indicate health, flammability, reactive, and special hazards for chemicals. The NFPA label is usually a diamond made up of four sub-diamonds, each with its own color. The blue diamond represents health hazards, the red diamond represents flammability hazards, the yellow diamond represents instability hazards, and the white diamond is for special handling. Each of the blue, red, and yellow diamonds is rated from 1-4 in severity, with 4 being the most severe.

While NFPA labels are not required by OSHA or any other agency, they are widely used within the industry and may be required by local ordinances. These labels are just as useful as any other in assessing hazards presented by chemicals within a confined space.

To learn more about Confined Spaces Competent Person/Supervisor visit our Confined Spaces Competent Person/Supervisor Online Training web page.