Chemical label refers to the information marking attached to the packaging of chemicals, which is used to convey to the user the basic nature of the chemical, its hazardous nature, safe operation requirements and other important information. It is not only an important part of chemicals management, but also one of the core means to ensure the safe use and transportation of chemicals.
According to international standards (e.g. Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS)), chemical labels usually include the following contents:
- chemical name: indicate the official name or trade name of the chemical.
- Hazard statement: describes the hazards that the chemical may pose to human health, the environment or property.
- warning symbols: visually communicate the hazardous properties of the chemical through graphic symbols (e.g., flames, skulls, etc.).
- precautionary measures: provide safe handling advice on how to properly store, use and dispose of the chemical.
- Supplier information: Includes the name, address and contact information of the manufacturer or supplier.
The features of Chemical label are:
- Standardization: The design and content of chemical labels need to follow international or national standards, such as the GHS system. This standardization ensures that chemical information is consistently understood across countries and regions, avoiding misunderstandings due to language or cultural differences.
- Intuitive: Labels often contain graphic symbols and color coding (e.g., a diamond icon with a red border), visual elements that quickly attract attention and help users quickly identify the hazard class and type of chemical.
- Concise information: Because of the limited space available on labels, their content must be concise and to the point. This requires the designer to convey the most critical information in a limited amount of text and graphics, while ensuring that no essential safety tips are omitted.
- Legal Compulsory: Many countries have clear legal and regulatory requirements for Chemical label. Failure to label as required may result in penalties, so labels are legally binding.
- Dynamic update: With the development of science and technology as well as the deepening of the understanding of chemicals, the classification, hazard and precautionary measures of chemicals may change. Therefore, the contents of the label need to be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect the latest research results and regulatory requirements.