SAFETY
89
Labels that carry a strong electrostatic
charge add unwanted risk when labelling in fuel-rich, volatile vapour-filled environments. A static discharge is generated when a label is separated from its liner and then applied to a container. “This is important because a static charge could potentially ignite vapours surrounding a container as it’s being labelled,” Chekel adds.
MASTERING STATIC
LABELLING • EVERYONE KNOWS TO BE CAREFUL ABOUT STATIC WHEN FILLING A DRUM BUT HOW MANY ARE AWARE OF THE STATIC HAZARDS GENERATED BY LABELS?
IN ANY INDUSTRIAL location where a potentially explosive atmosphere can exist, great care has to be taken when transferring product between containers. This is as true on the drumming line as it is when filling a tank truck. All those involved in the process should be aware of the hazards of static electricity and the measures that should be taken to dissipate a static charge before it has the chance to create a spark and, potentially, the ignition of a flammable gas. How many, though, are aware of the static hazards presented by the labelling process?
NEW ESD LABELS FROM LABELMASTER REDUCE THE RISK OF STATIC DISCHARGE DURING THE APPLICATION OF LABELS IN A POTENTIALLY FLAMMABLE ATMOSPHERE
Probably not many, although as the industry learns new ways to deal with the obligations emerging from the implementation of the labelling requirements of the Globally Harmonised System of classification and labelling of chemicals (GHS), such as those imposed in the US by the Hazard Communication 2012 standard, new risks are emerging. This is particularly the case when using laser printers. Tom Chekel, product engineer at Labelmaster, explains: “In certain industrial settings, such as chemical plants and coatings manufacturers, mitigating the effects of static electricity in the labelling process and elsewhere is critical. Traditional laser printing is an electrostatic process that actually adds additional charge to labels as toner inks are bonded to label surfaces.”
STATIC SOLUTION To make hazardous materials labelling safer and to protect workers, Labelmaster has developed durable anti-static drum labels – called electrostatic dissipative (ESD) labels – made of materials that naturally dissipate static charges faster than traditional vinyl drum labels. Labelmaster’s ultra-porous, super static- absorbent ESD labels reduce the time a label holds a charge during printing, application and removal. The labels also reduce the charge build-up on a label after it has been applied, thereby lessening the chances for future discharges. In addition to its anti-static measures,
the ESD labels are designed to withstand rough handling, harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, UV exposure, moisture, scraping and abrasion. “The ESD labels are tear-resistant, impervious to abrasion, resist chemicals, solvents and water, and are virtually indestructible,” says Chekel. “They are ideal for painted steel, fibre or plastics drums and are inherently safer for hazardous environments.” Labelmaster’s ESD labels are available in
up to four colours and can be customised and personalised to include all of the information needed including DOT Hazard Class and GHS information. Measuring 8 3/8 x 14 7/8 inches and 8 3/8 x 10 7/8 inches, they are sold in packs of 250. “We have a huge selection of additional ESD label sizes available and customer inquiries are welcome,” Chekel adds. Labelmaster also supplies a wide range of
products, software and services on matters relating to dangerous goods, including OSHA hazard communication products, DOT placards, labels, regulatory publications, UN packaging and more. HCB
www.labelmaster.com/anti-static-drum-labels
WWW.HCBLIVE.COM
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