The Global Harmonized System (GHS) is a standard for the unified classification and labeling of chemicals in the United States. One of the significant aspects of compliance with the GHS is labeling. GHS labels have strict requirements on what information they must include. This is vital for the safety of anyone who may come into contact with a substance. Learn the required information GHS labels must include by reading below.
Signal Word
This is a word that is always in bold font and is found at the top left of the label. A signal word is meant to indicate the hazard level of the contained substance. Only two words are ever used as a signal word: “Danger” and “Warning.” “Danger” is used for the most severe level of hazard, while “Warning” is used to convey a hazard that is not as severe. The label should only ever display one of these signal words.
GHS Symbols
A commonly recognized feature on GHS labels are the symbols, or hazard pictograms, that appear on the lower left below the signal word. The symbols are used to identify the type of hazard that the product presents. These are categorized by their chemical, physical, health, and environmental risk. There’s a total of nine symbols, and a label will display however many apply to the contained contents.
Manufacturer Information
Located on the bottom right of the label should be the manufacturer’s information. This includes the company name first, followed by the address and the telephone number. This information is vital because it allows anyone handling the material to contact the company directly to answer questions and clarify concerns.
Precautionary Statements and First Aid Response
One of the most vital parts of required information GHS labels must include is the precautionary statements. These include details such as preventative and responsive actions, proper storage, and disposal precautions. Each detail is important for the protection of anyone working around such materials.
Hazard Statements
Similar to the precautionary statements mentioned above, hazard statements are meant to warn those handling the containers and alert them as to what chemical is inside. This includes the nature of the substance and the degree of the hazard. Identifying the hazard degree informs people of the damage that exposure to the substance could inflict on them. This information is always placed on the middle-right of the label.
Product Name or Identities
This identifies the chemical by name. If there are additional identifiers, they may be listed to the left of the supplier information. This is important if the chemical is a mixture or alloy that could contain substances that could cause acute toxicity, skin corrosion, eye damage, and other bodily harm.
Any GHS labels should be printed from the highest quality printers. Texas Label Printers can supply a high-quality sticker label printer, as well as other digital industrial label printing equipment from the top recommended brands in the industry.
