GHS Label Requirements
Find out what ghs labeling requirements are and how Imprint can help you with ghs labeling compliance.
GHS Labeling Requirements: Size
Under GHS regulations, product labels have different minimum sizes based upon the capacity of the container. See GHS label requirements below.
GHS Labeling Requirements: Elements
GHS label requirements calls for each chemical product label to contain the following: Product Identifier, Pictogram, Signal Word, Hazard Statement, and Supplier Information. See the required GHS label elements below.
Product Identifier
Product identifiers are meant to prevent accidental or unknown exposure with the ability to accurately identify the chemical and its hazard. Product identifiers are the ingredient names or number of the pure chemical substance or chemical mixture. Technical name(s) must be correspond with IUPAC, CAS and technical names on the MSDS sheet. If the chemical is regulated under the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, then the name must also correspond with the UN Proper Shipping Name.
Signal Words (1 and 2)
Signal words communicate relative hazard severity and alert to a potential hazard. The signal word “Warning” and the number “1” specify less-severe/non-lethal hazards while the signal word “Danger” and the number “2” specify severe or potentially lethal hazards.
Hazard Statement
These words or phrases are meant to describe the nature and degree of the hazard of the chemical. Hazard statements should be on the label for a chemical or substance possessing more than one hazard. For example: “Heating may cause explosion.”
Precautionary Statement
The precautionary statement describes recommended measures to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure. First aid information is also included.
Supplier Information
Each chemical container, as well as secondary packaging (crates or master cases) are required to include supplier information. Supplier information includes: name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier.
GHS Pictograms (Diamond-Shaped Symbols)
Diamond-shaped, red, black, and white pictograms communicate information about the hazardous risks associated with a chemical. Paired with the signal word (discussed below,) the pictogram communicates severity of the risk and prevents accidental or unknown exposure. More then one pictogram may be used for the same label if/when applicable. Pictogram size, and other label elements, should be proportionate to the dimensions of the label.
GHS Label Requirements: Material Standards
Along with the GHS label elements on the actual label, packaging material requirements under GHS are consistent with the safety measures to contain chemical hazards. In Europe, for example, packaging is required to: prevent chemical escape, not be affected adversely by the chemical, and be strong enough to endure normal handling and repeated use.
To qualify for GHS label requirements standards, labels must test for permanence and imperviousness. Label and label substrates must be:
- Chemical-resistant
- Abrasion-resistant
- UV light resistant
- Weather-resistant
- Utilize marine-grade label adhesive
Discuss GHS Label Requirements with Our Consultants
Contact one of our GHS implementation specialists today at (855) 745-4464 to discuss your company’s project. Imprint offers everything from 2-color printers and approved supplies to custom, comprehensive GHS rollout solutions.
