Shipped containers

Each container of hazardous chemicals leaving the workplace must be labeled, tagged, or marked with the following information:

• Product identifier. This is how the hazardous chemical is identified. A product identifier can be (but is not limited to) the chemical name, code number, or batch number. The manufacturer, importer, or distributor can decide the appropriate product identifier, but the same identifier must appear on both the label and in section 1 of the safety data sheet (SDS);
• Signal word - These are used to communicate the severity of the hazard a chemical poses. There are only two signal words: “Danger” and “Warning.” “Danger” is used for more severe hazards; “Warning” is used for less severe hazards. Only one signal word will appear on a label, regardless of the number of hazards associated with a chemical. The signal word will reflect the most severe of the chemical’s hazards;
• Hazard statement(s) - These describe the nature of a chemical’s hazards and their severity. All applicable hazard statements must appear on a label, and chemical users should always see the same statement for the same hazards no matter what the chemical is or who produces it;
• Pictogram(s) - These consist of a symbol on a white background framed within a red border, and each represents a distinct hazard;
• Precautionary statement(s) - These describe preventive measures chemical users should take to reduce the risk of handling the chemical. There are four types of precautionary statements:
• Prevention to minimize exposure;
• Response in case of accidental spillage or exposure;
• Storage; and
• Disposal;
• Name, address, and telephone number of the chemical manufacturer, importer, or other responsible party.

The label, tag, or marking must be prominently displayed, and in English. Other languages may be included if appropriate.

Hazards not otherwise classified do not have to be addressed on the container.

Workplace containers

Each container of hazardous chemicals in the workplace must be labeled, tagged, or marked with either:

• The information required to be on the labels for shipped containers; or
• A product identifier and words, pictures, symbols, or combination thereof, that provides at least general information about the hazards of the chemicals, and which, in conjunction with the other information immediately available to employees under the HazCom program, will provide employees with specific information regarding the physical and health hazards of the hazardous chemical.

Workplace labels or other forms of warning must be legible, in English, and prominently displayed on the container or readily available in the work area throughout each work shift. Information may be added in other languages as long as it is in English as well.

Process containers. Signs, placards, process sheets, batch tickets, operating procedures, or other such written materials may be used in lieu of affixing labels to individual stationary process containers, as long as the alternative method identifies the applicable containers and conveys the required information. Any written materials must be readily accessible to the employees in their work area throughout each work shift.