The labels on chemical containers are designed to ensure the substance is used safely and correctly. Whether in the laboratory, home, or an industrial setting, these labels must contain essential details about the chemical including its name, formula, and hazard information.
While many manufactured chemicals are non-hazardous, others can be toxic, corrosive, oxidative, flammable, explosive, or radioactive. Proper labelling alerts users to the potential risks, which can help to prevent accidents, injuries, sickness, fatalities, and environmental damage.
Chemical manufacturers like ReAgent are legally required to include labels on their products. It’s also important to label products when repacking them into different containers. Read on to learn more about labelling chemical solutions, why it matters, and how to read chemical labels.
In this post:
What must appear on a chemical label?
As a minimum, labels on manufactured chemical products must include these six key details:
- The chemical name (sometimes the formula is also listed)
- The manufacturer’s address
- A word signal like “caution” printed in large capital letters
- A hazard statement
- Relevant pictograms
- Precautionary statements.
1. Name
The label should either list the chemical’s common name or its IUPAC name. It may also include the chemical formula in parenthesis below the name. This is standard practice with chemicals that are manufactured for laboratory and educational use.
2. Address
A chemical label must display the name of the supplier and their physical address (including the street name and building number, city, region or state, postcode, and country). It should also provide the supplier’s emergency contact number.
3. Word signal
A word signal is printed in large, capital, or bold letters (typically in red) to ensure it’s immediately noticeable. The exact wording may differ depending on the type of chemical hazard. For example, it could simply say “WARNING!”. Other labels may display the words “CAUTION” or “POISON”. Of course, the language will vary according to the intended market.
4. Hazard statement
The hazard statement is the section of the label that specifically states what type of possible harm or damage the chemical may cause. For example, the statement may warn that the chemical is corrosive and harmful to the skin, eyes, and mucus membranes.
5. Pictograms
Pictograms symbolise the product’s specific hazards, such as flammability and toxicity. These symbols are based on internationally agreed-upon standards that are easy to understand. They typically sit alongside the word signal and are contained in a distinctive red diamond-shaped frame, as shown below.
6. Precautionary statements
A precautionary statement tells you how to minimise or prevent adverse effects when using the substance. Precautionary statements tend to be the most detailed part of the label and essentially amount to a list of do’s and don’ts. Examples of precautionary statements can include the following:
- Wear eye protection
- Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product
- Keep out of reach of children
- Store at temperatures not exceeding …
- If swallowed, rinse your mouth and do not induce vomiting
In addition to labelling containers correctly, chemical manufacturers, sellers, and distributors are also required to provide safety data sheets (SDSs).
SDSs contain more detailed information about the chemical’s composition, health and environmental hazards, safety instructions for handling and storage, and first aid and emergency protocols. You can download our material safety data sheets here.
Why are labels for chemicals important?
Chemical labels are important because they help to keep the user (and those around them) safe. Chemical labels are designed to give precautionary information about the dangers the chemical poses and remind people to use proper protective equipment.
They also advise how to store the substance correctly and include instructions on what to do in case of emergencies. All of this information can help to prevent injuries and fatalities in the home or workplace.
Another reason why labels are so important is that they tell the user exactly what type of chemical they’re handling. Understanding the substance’s chemical composition and properties then enables you to use it correctly. This is particularly important when it comes to laboratory analyses and preparations, such as mixing precise molar concentrations of certain chemical solutions.
How to read a chemical label
Whether you’re working in a laboratory or simply using chemicals as part of your household chores, you should always read and follow the instructions on a chemical label.
The first thing that you should familiarise yourself with is the symbols on the label. The GB CLP hazard pictograms appear in red diamond frames and are shown above. The Health and Safety Executive website also includes a handy guide to hazardous pictograms, which you may find useful. Bear in mind that more than one symbol may appear on a chemical’s label.
Once you’ve deciphered the pictograms, make sure you read the hazard statement and precautionary statements. These statements are written in clear, concise language and are designed to be easy to understand and follow.
If you’re handling chemicals that have been manufactured in the United States, you’ll also need to familiarise yourself with the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) system. This uses a colour-coded number scheme to denote the type of risk and severity of the hazard.
You can learn more about how to handle hazardous chemicals safely here.
Summary
A chemical label must display important information about a substance including its name, manufacturer’s address, a word signal, e.g. ‘CAUTION’, hazard statement, pictograms, and precautionary statements. Chemical labels enable users to identify the chemical and understand the hazards and how to avoid them. It’s essential to read the label before handling any kind of chemical. This will help to keep you safe and prevent accidents, property damage, injuries, and fatalities.
Our chemical labelling and packaging solutions comply with the stringent regulations governing the chemical industry. Visit our website or contact a member of the team today to find out more.
