WHAT IS A LABEL ELEMENT?


• “Label element” means the specified pictogram(s), hazard statement(s), signal word and precautionary statement(s) for each hazard class and category. • Under the new OSHA standard, chemical manufacturers must include several elements on their product labels.


Additionally, employers must train their employees on these elements to ensure proper storage of hazardous chemicals, quick location of first aid information and understanding how the various label elements work together to explain multiple hazards.


For example “Danger” means a more severe hazard within a hazard class than “Warning” which is for the less severe hazard.


There are 5 required label elements: 1. Product identifier. Chemical name, code number or batch number. 2. Signal word. Indicates the severity level of hazard. Only the words “Warning” or “Danger” are allowed. 3. Pictogram. OSHA has designated eight pictograms that can be used in this hazard category. 4. Hazard statement(s). Describes the nature of the hazard(s) of a chemical, including the degree of hazard.


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5. Precautionary statements. Recommends measures to take to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to, storage or handling of a hazardous chemical.


Product Identifier The Product Identifier is simply how the product needs to be identified. It will contain the chemical name and a code or batch number. This information if provided by the manufacturer.


Signal Word “Signal word” indicates a word used to alert the reader to a potential hazard on the label.


Pictogram


“Pictogram” means a composition that may include a symbol plus other graphic elements, such as a border, background pattern, or color, that is intended to convey specific information about the hazards of a chemical.


Eight pictograms are designated under this standard for application to a hazard category


Each pictogram must be in the shape of a red square set at a point and include a black symbol on a white background.


There are 8 required pictograms. The 9th, "Environmental" may be listed, but it is not required.


Hazard Statement Precautionary Statement “Hazard statement” is a statement assigned to a


hazard class and category that describes the nature of the hazard(s) of a chemical, including, where appropriate, the degree of hazard.


– Examples: Fatal if swallowed (Acute Oral Toxicity) Causes damage to kidneys through repeated exposure


• Gases Under Pressure


• Skin Corrosion/ Burns


• Eye Damage • Corrosive to Metals Flame Over Circle


Environment (Non-Mandatory)


and Crossbones Skull


• Explosives • Self-Reactives • Organic Peroxides


Hazard Communication Standard Pictogram


There are 2 signal words that will be used. They are “DANGER” and “WARNING.” “Danger” is used for the more severe hazards, while “warning” is used for the less severe.


Health Hazard


As of June 1, 2015, the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) will require pictograms on labels to alert users of the chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. Each pictogram consists of a symbol on a white background framed within a red border and represents a distinct hazard(s). The pictogram on the label is determined by the chemical hazard classification.


HCS Pictograms and Hazards Flame


• Carcinogen • Mutagenicity


• Reproductive Toxicity • Respiratory Sensitizer • Target Organ Toxicity • Aspiration Toxicity


Gas Cylinder


• Flammables • Pyrophorics • Self-Heating


• Emits Flammable Gas • Self-Reactives • Organic Peroxides


Corrosion Exclamation Mark


TM


• Irritant (skin and eye) • Skin Sensitizer • Acute Toxicity (harmful) • Narcotic Effects • Respiratory Tract Irritant


• Hazardous to Ozone Layer (Non-Mandatory)


Exploding Bomb


• Oxidizers


• Aquatic Toxicity For more information:


• Acute Toxicity (fatal or toxic)


Dangerous Goods & Hazardous Materials 14


491-02 2012


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