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Hazard Communication & Chemical Safety: GHS Labels and Pictograms

Understanding how to correctly label chemicals and identify hazards is critical for keeping everyone in the facility safe. Week 3 of our Hazard Communication & Chemical Safety series focuses on labeling and pictograms, essential components of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).

A strong Safety Culture includes consistent, clear labeling and hazard recognition. It also relies on employees identifying the risks involved with each chemical or substance they handle.

GHS labels are designed to communicate specific hazards quickly. They use standardized pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and precautionary guidance. These labels are required on all primary containers and must stay intact and legible. Unfortunately, many accidents happen because labels are missing, unreadable, or incorrect. That's why clear and accurate labeling practices are key to chemical safety.

Here are a few tips to assist you with proper labeling and understanding pictograms:

• Know the nine GHS pictograms. Each symbol represents a specific hazard. From the flame icon indicating flammable materials to the skull and crossbones for toxic substances, recognizing these symbols at a glance helps prevent unsafe exposure and improper handling.
• Always check for the six required elements on a GHS label. These include the product identifier, signal word, pictogram(s), hazard statement, precautionary statement, and supplier information. If any of these are missing, the label does not meet safety standards and should be reported.
• Label all secondary containers. If you transfer a chemical into a smaller or temporary container, it must also be labeled unless the person who moved it uses it immediately. That label should still include the product name and appropriate hazard information.
• Don't forget to ignore worn or damaged labels. Faded or peeling labels reduce the chance of proper identification. Replace them right away and report the issue to your supervisor.
• Use real-world examples to stay alert. Watch out for common mistakes, like handwritten labels missing hazard information or using abbreviations others may not understand. Ask or refer to the safety data sheet (SDS) when in doubt.

Strong labeling practices don't just meet regulation requirements—they prevent injuries, reduce confusion, and help create a more organized and efficient facility. By taking time to review and understand labels and pictograms, you're actively helping to protect yourself and your team.

Accurate labeling is not a suggestion. It's part of your responsibility to maintain a safe working environment. Let's make sure every label tells the whole story—and tells it.

Thank you for being part of another episode of Warehouse Safety Tips.

Until we meet next time – have a great week, and STAY SAFE!

#Safety #SafetyFIRST #SafetyALWAYS #StaySafe #SafetyCulture #ChemicalSafety #GHSCompliance #HazardCommunication #LabelingMatters