GHS Label Requirements Made Simple

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Summary

• OSHA uses the GHS labeling system to improve the consistency of material classification and ensure safe handling. 
• There are six essential label requirements.
• Primary and secondary packaging must contain accurate labeling.
• Ensure your chemical products are GHS compliant by consulting the GHS Purple Book.

In 2012, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) first adopted an international standardized system for classifying and labeling chemicals and hazardous materials. 

The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) gives specific guidance for labeling chemicals. This process helps improve the quality and consistency of material classification, making handling safer and easier for workers. It also enhances cohesion among businesses on the supply chain. 

To comply with GHS, manufacturers, importers and exporters must ensure all products are correctly and clearly labeled. There are six mandatory elements for all containers. The GHS also outlines instructions for labeling the secondary containers that may be located inside the primary package.

GHS Label Requirements

All GHS labels must be easy to read and clearly visible. In the U.S., they must be written in English. 

1. Signal word

The signal word describes the hazard level of a chemical. There are only two signal words for GHS compliance. The word “Danger” marks the most severe chemical hazards. “Warning” describes a less hazardous substance. 

Shippers should know the classification of the chemicals from filling out the shipper’s declaration for dangerous goods form. 

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2. GHS symbols (Hazard pictograms)

GHS pictograms identify risks associated with the chemicals. They are helpful diagrams for workers to quickly identify any significant health risks when handling the products. There are nine different GHS symbols. GHS pictograms must be square with a red frame, making them recognizable at a glance. 

If a chemical product doesn’t contain a pictogram that meets OSHA regulations, it is not regarded as a genuine pictogram. Pictograms fall into the category of chemical risk, health risk or environmental risk. The nine GHS pictograms are: 

1. Corrosion
2. Gas cylinder
3. Health hazard
4. Flame 
5. Exclamation mark 
6. Explosive
7. Severe toxic
8. Oxidizing 
9. Environmental

OSHA doesn’t mandate the environmental pictogram. However, it can be used to present additional information on a shipping label, such as aquatic toxicity. 

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3. Manufacturer information

A GHS label should include key manufacturer information, including the company name, address and telephone number. This allows workers and customers to quickly identify a manufacturer if they have questions or concerns regarding the chemical. 

4. Precautionary statements

Precautionary statements outline the necessary steps to ensure a chemical or potentially hazardous material doesn’t become dangerous. These steps must be adjusted according to the specific material. Precautionary statements contain preventative measures and response, first aid, disposal and storage recommendations. 

5. Hazard statements

Hazardous statements describe the dangers of a chemical. They also appear on the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and are identified by a letter code (e.g., H100). The GHS standardizes the format for writing hazard statements. Businesses must consult the GHS purple book when writing hazard statements, ensuring compliance. 

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6. Product names and identifiers

Product names and identifiers display essential information, such as the supplier’s name, manufacturer or chemical. The product identifier must be the same as the one on the SDS.

Primary and Secondary Labels

Chemical products are often packaged in primary and secondary containers. The primary containers are large boxes or drums that come from the manufacturer. These contain labels that you must not remove. 

Secondary containers are typically smaller bottles or canisters that you can fill with the chemical product. These containers must also contain detailed GHS labels. 

If the secondary container is too small for a label, the producer must use an alternative labeling option. For example, fold-back labels, removable tags or pull-out labels are common substitutes for standard stick-on GHS labels.

Transportation Labeling

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) sets out the label requirements for transporting hazardous goods. While GHS requirements often overlap, chemical suppliers should consult the DOT to ensure compliance for transporting goods.

For example, hazmat placards are not mentioned in the GHS standards but are used frequently for road, rail and ocean freight.

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Resources to Help with GHS Labeling

Two of the most important resources for creating GHS labels are SDS and the GHS purple book. The chemical manufacturer should provide you with an SDS. You can also access SDS through various online databases.

The GHS Purple Book is the leading publication regarding GHS labels and how to approach chemical hazard communication. The United Nations created the Purple Book and revises it regularly with updates to requirements and regulations.

Handle and Ship Chemicals Safely

Storing and transporting chemicals requires knowledge and experience with international safety and compliance laws, including GHS label requirements. High-quality, OSHA-compliant packing materials improve the safety of warehouse operators and transport workers and help organizations avoid fines and penalties for compliance issues. 

At Air Sea Containers, we provide a massive range of storage and transport materials, including UN-rated and OSHA-compliant cans, drums, barrels and boxes. We also carry safety placards and labels for successfully adhering to GHS legislation.