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At a recent chemistry meeting, a question came up concerning the proper method of labeling a chemical container. Of the twenty-four chemistry teachers in attendance, not one of them was sure what kind of information is required on a chemical label.
In 1983, OSHA implemented the Hazard Communication Standard (Right-to-know law). This standard gives teachers, students and parents the right to know about the hazards associated with the chemicals they are using in the classroom/laboratory. The standard requires chemical manufacturers to transmit this safety information to their customers by means of labels and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
At the time, the only guideline
for labeling was that the label
must list the "appropriate hazard
warnings." In 1994, OSHA clarified
their position and said that a
label must include "the specific
physical or health hazard(s) including
target organs affected."
OSHA also realized that labels may not be large enough to list every possible warning so they said the label should provide a brief summary of the hazards in a highlighted form. When a teacher or student needs in-depth information, they can refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet.
Based on what we now know, how should a chemical container or bottle be labeled? We suggest the best approach to proper chemical container labeling is to list these four items on the label.
1. Chemical name—Completely spell out the name correctly. Avoid using abbreviations or chemical formulas.
2. Concentration—If the chemical is in solution, indicate the solution's molarity or strength.
3. How can the chemical hurt you?—List in clear terms how the chemical can hurt you and what target organs would be affected. This information can easily be found on your MSDS. Avoid numerical or alphabetical codes. These codes are difficult to remember and could easily be misinterpreted. Use words that everyone can understand.
4. Date Prepared—Knowing the date the chemical was prepared is very important, especially for those chemicals which either have a limited shelf life or become more hazardous with age.
For example, let's say you just prepared a 6M hydrochloric acid solution. The label should say:
Hydrochloric acid
6M solution
Corrosive to all body tissue, especially skin and eyes. Avoid all body contact. 1999
Additional information may be required in your state. A few states require the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code on the label. Other states may require the Chemical Abstract Services (CAS) number to be on the label. Check with your state science supervisor to learn more about the label requirements in your state.
Lastly, remember that this label may need to be on the chemical container for years to come. Avoid using grease pencils and writing directly on the bottle. Always use a permanent marker on label paper that has a good adhesive. Print clearly so everyone can read and understand the label you have prepared.
If you have questions regarding
how to label chemical containers or have any other safety concerns, please call
us toll free at 1-800-452-1261. We'll gladly help in any way we can.
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| © 2006 Flinn Scientific, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction
permission is granted to science teachers who are current customers
of Flinn Scientific, Inc. No part of this material may be reproduced
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including, but not limited to photocopy, recording, or any information
storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from
Flinn Scientific, Inc.
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