Although this blog has looked at the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) before, let’s revisit the specific elements that make up a compliant label. For safe labeling that reduces possible harm, chemical producers need to know the multiple pieces that go into a single coherent labeling strategy. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) features a diagram of how label elements interact with each other and what producers need to know about each section.
As Figure 4.8 on this page shows, a GHS label breaks down into distinct sections for various types of important information. These include the product name or identifier, signal words (like “Danger” or “Warning”), hazard statements, pictograms, first aid statements and company contact information.
The standard doesn’t specify the order that the necessary elements need to be in, but it does say that they should be grouped together. In an example provided on that page, two different hazard pictograms are placed on either side of textual statement on the label. The warnings also include a statement referring to the product’s relevant Material Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
The site notes that some of the elements of a GHS label can be placed in a work area as opposed to on the product itself. Writing for the OSHA Law Blog, Tressi Cordaro noted the need for employers to promote better workplace consideration of hazardous materials.
“Under the Hazard Communication standard, employers are required to train their employees on the hazardous chemicals in the workplace, labeling, SDSs, and measures that employees can take to protect themselves when using hazardous chemicals, such as personal protective equipment,” Cordaro writes.
Combine GHS label software and compatible printers like the VIPColor VP495 to produce excellent, detailed labels that match GHS standards.