Labels

Chemical manufacturers and importers are required to provide labels that include the following components:

Hazard statements: This is a phrase assigned to each hazard category that describes the nature of the hazard. An example of a hazard statement is as follows: "Harmful if swallowed."

Pictograms: These symbols convey health, physical, and environmental hazard information assigned to a GHS hazard class and category. The symbol appears inside a diamond with a red border.

Precautionary statements: These are phrases that describe recommended measures that should be taken to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous product or improper storage or handling of a hazardous product. These phrases cover prevention, response, storage, and disposal of products. An example of a precautionary statement is as follows: "Do not eat, drink, or smoke when using this product."

Product identifiers: These are names or numbers used on a hazardous product label or in a safety data sheet. They provide a unique means by which the product user can identify the chemical substance or mixture.

Signal word: This one-word warning is used to indicate the relative severity of a hazard and to alert the reader to a potential hazard listed on the label and SDS. The GHS includes two signal words: "Danger" for more severe hazards and "Warning" for less severe hazards.

Supplier identification: This is information that includes the name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier of a substance.

Proper labeling is extremely important to prevent accidents and occupational exposure. As such, employers must ensure that the labels accompanying chemicals are maintained appropriately. The following are some general best practices concerning labeling:

• Ensure proper labeling of all incoming materials as they are received (include product name, weight, concentration, lot number, date, hazard class, and any other pertinent information).
• Always label hazardous waste at its point of generation where it can still be easily identified (testing later to determine the contents is expensive).
• If a chemical was in a labeled container and is subsequently transferred to another container, be sure to label the new container.
• Label shelving where a chemical is stored with additional labeling if the chemical will be used in its entirety when it is removed from the shelf.
• Designate a responsible person to ensure re-labeling of hazardous wastes or to prepare waste for shipping.
• Review and update label information regularly (at least annually).

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