Understanding OSHA and GHS Labeling Requirements for Hazardous Chemicals

Navigating the world of workplace safety can sometimes feel overwhelming, but understanding GHS and OSHA labels is a crucial step in creating a safer work environment. Hazard labels are designed to provide clear communication about hazards associated with various chemicals and materials.

In this guide, we'll break down the essentials of OSHA and GHS labeling, giving you the confidence to handle hazardous chemicals safely. Let's discover how these labels work to keep you and your team safe!

Understanding OSHA and GHS

OSHA Safety Labels

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, assures workplace safety through communication on chemical hazard's in the United States. OSHA labels provide important information about chemicals, helping employees make safe decisions.

These labels include elements like a product identifier, signal words, hazard statements, precautionary measures, and supplier information. OSHA labels align with GHS standards, promoting consistency across workplaces and industries. By following to these standards, you not only comply but also create a safer work environment.

What is a GHS Label?

The GHS or the Globally Harmonized System, is an international system the United Nations created to label chemicals. It was adopted by OSHA in the U.S. on March 12, 2012. GHS labels provide clear information about potential dangers, ensuring the safety of workers and consumers. This process promotes global chemical safety.

Key Components of OSHA & GHS Labels

Under the OSHA and GHS, labels for hazardous chemicals should include the following:

1. Product Identifier: This can be the chemical name, code number, or batch number.

2. Signal Words: OSHA mandates the use of two signal words: “Danger” and “Warning.” These words indicate the severity of the hazard. “Danger” is reserved for the more severe hazards, while “Warning” is used for less severe risks.

3. Hazard Statements: These statements describe the nature of the chemical hazards. Each hazard classification must have a consistent hazard statement across different producers.

4. Precautionary Statements: These describe recommended measures to minimize or prevent effects from exposure to the hazardous chemical. OSHA defines four types of precautionary statements:

   • Prevention: To minimize exposure.

   • Response: In case of accidental spillage or exposure.

   • Storage: Guidelines for proper storage of the chemical.

   • Disposal: Recommendations for safe disposal of the chemical.

   There's some flexibility in applying precautionary statements, such as combining statements or using an order of precedence.

5. Pictograms: Graphical symbols used to communicate hazard information. Pictograms must be enclosed in a red diamond frame and be clearly visible.

6. Supplementary Information: Additional information that may be helpful.

Make sure to use GHS and OSHA labels to create a safe workplace. These labels include the NFPA Diamond for easy identification. Using your Dymo printer, simply print your products information along with the key elements above to ensure proper labeling. These elements help communicate useful information about hazardous products.

Types of GHS Containers

GHS Primary Containers

Primary containers are the original packages for shipped chemicals. They include bags, barrels, bottles, cans, cylinders, and drums. These containers must be labeled following GHS mandates with all required elements. The labels on these containers cannot be removed, altered, or defaced to ensure consistent safety information.

GHS Secondary Containers

Secondary containers are usually smaller, like spray bottles or jars, and are often filled from a primary container. While secondary containers generally adhere to labeling requirements, there are exceptions. If a chemical is used for immediate use within a single work shift and remains in the worker’s possession, full labeling may not be necessary. However, it's still best to label secondary containers to ensure workplace safety and compliance with OSHA and GHS standards.

Creating custom labels for primary and secondary labels shouldn't be a hassle. With LabelValue, create labels that inform your employees and consumers with informative material about your containers content. Follow OSHA and GHS guidelines when creating your labels. This will ensure your workplace follows regulations while keep your employees safe!

Updates to OSHA Requirements

OSHA has updated its Hazard Communication Standard to align with the seventh revision of the GHS. This update took effect on July 19, 2024. This revision includes new rules on hazard classifications, revised provisions for updating labels, and new labeling provisions for small containers.

New rules means new labeling for your company's chemical products. Some industries that are affected are new markets, hazardous product manufacturers, importers and distributors in the US who all need to update and replace their labels.

Following OSHA and GHS regulations plays a crucial role in the safe handling of chemicals. Use hazardous labels to ensure products are properly labeled and packaged to comply with these regulations. Create a safe environment for you and your employees with our OSHA and GHS labels today!