Download Required Labeling Elements: New GHS Labeling Elements Defined:

The hazardous communication standard uses two primary ways to
communicate the chemical hazards to the employees: the label on the chemical
container and the safety data sheet. The following Safety Talk will focus on
understanding the container label and the new GHS requirements.
Required Labeling Elements:
Under the GHS HAZCOM standard, OSHA requires that all hazardous material
containers be marked with the following six items:
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Product identifier (name)
Pictograms (new definition)
Signal word (new definition)
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Hazard statement (new definition)
Precautionary statements
Responsible party (manufacturer)
New GHS Labeling Elements Defined:
Pictograms: A standardized symbol on a white background framed within a red
border that represents a distinct hazard(s). There are a total of 9 pictograms
possible.
Signal Word: Either “Warning” or “Danger”
depending on the degree of hazard. Danger
represents a higher hazard material than warning.
Hazard Statement: Describes the nature and when possible, the degree of the
hazard. Defined by OSHA and chemical classification.
Precautionary Statement: Recommended measures that should be taken to
minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a chemical from
improper storage or handling.
Example of a GHS Complaint Chemical Label
Colby’s labeling protocol relies on maintaining the original
manufacturer labels whenever possible
Must be intact and legible
Must contain product identifier, manufacturer name/address and
appropriate hazard warnings required by OSHA under the 1994
hazcom, 2012 GHS, or equivalent by June 1, 2016
Under GHS, Manufacturers are required to put out only GHS labels
by June 1, 2015
When used, secondary containers must be labeled with equivalent
information as the manufacturers label
Colby’s Container Labels:
Colby’s labeling protocol relies on maintaining the original manufacturer labels
whenever possible:
 Must be intact and legible
 Must contain product identifier, manufacturer name/address, and appropriate
hazard warnings required
 Secondary containers must be labeled with equivalent information as the
manufacturer’s label unless it is a single use day container under the control
of the employee who filled it.
Review / Discussion Questions:
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Where would you get the information to put on a secondary label?
Which products used by your department are using GHS labels? Which
are not?
What are some quick clues to determine the hazards of a chemical from
a GHS label?
Printed Name
Signature
Questions, concerns or comments contact the EHS Director at extension 5504 .