How should hazardous materials be labelled?

On Behalf of | Jul 9, 2017 | Workplace Accidents

If you are one of the many Oklahoma residents who work in manufacturing or industrial positions in which you may come into contact with, use or simply be around hazardous materials, you should know about the chemicals in order to help yourself and others stay safe. One of the ways that you can do this is to understand the labels that should be on any and all packaging containing these hazardous items. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration outlines exactly what every label should include.

There are six specific elements that must be on every hazardous item’s label. One of these is an icon or graphical representation of the type of hazard the item may be associated. For example, if the material is flammable, the icon may be a flame. Along with the visual cue should be a single word that identifies whether or not there is an imminent danger or whether the label provides cautionary warnings. The product itself should be clearly identified so you know what you are working with or near.

Labels should clearly state what may happen if inappropriate contact or use occurs. An example is a statement that explains how eyes may be burned if they come into contact with the substance. Precautions should be listed to help prevent such things. Finally, the name, phone number and address of the company should appear.

This information is not intended to provide legal advice but is instead meant to give workers in Oklahoma an overview of the federal labelling requirements for all packages containing hazardous materials in order to keep people safe and prevent injuries and accidents.