Hazard Labels – Hazard Symbols Meaning & Requirements

Gilly Print are experts in the field of hazardous substance/material label printing and we excel at innovating the perfect hazard label solution, there is no minimum order and we work with you to get the quickest turnaround for your business.  We have built an excellent reputation developing customised labels and service a range of clients throughout the UK from our base in Lymington, Hampshire.

 

Labelling For Hazards

The hazard label is an initial warning of the hazard and the instructions on the item and datasheet should always be followed.  Some items may have more than one hazard label which depends on the type of chemical or substances. For example a product may be toxic and also flammable. Workplaces would require a Coshh assessment and hazard labelling implemented appropriately.

 

Coshh Labels & the Law

Chemical suppliers in the EU including the UK need to comply with the CLP European regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 which came into force on 20 January 2009 – regarding classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures. All of this type of product labelling must adhere to CLP regulations by June 2017. More advice can be found on the following link – http://www.hse.gov.uk/chemical-classification/what-to-do/index.htm

The chemical legislation which is important for employers is Coshh which sits next to the CLP regulation, which is the law regarding use and exposure to chemicals and substances in the workplace.   

All types of industries would need to comply to the Coshh legislation such as hairdressers, bakers, cleaners, engineers e.t.c  any workplace where there are substances or chemicals present which can affect human health. It may be that some natural products have properties which can cause a health issue if the instructions are not correctly followed according to the manufacturer’s advice.  

Following the Coshh guidelines which would be achieved through assessment and training, reduces staff illnesses, has a positive impact on productivity and encourages a better understanding on many aspects of Health and Safety. Also there is a potential to reduce costs as the chemicals or substances in question are used more efficiently. Correct CLP hazard and warning labelling is a legal requirement for both manufacturer and end user.

 

Control of substances Hazardous to Health

If you require more information on Coshh and how it could help your organisation please refer to the HSE website http://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/basics.htm

Listed below are the new version CLP pictograms which are also referred to as Coshh symbols.  

Hazard, Chemical, Safety or Coshh labels are there to notify you there is a potential hazard and to advise you to apply the necessary precautions. Further information for use is given on the item packaging or the datasheet of the chemical or substance.

 

 

 

New Coshh Hazard Symbols

The older harmful/irritant black cross in an orange square has been replaced by the new exclamation mark symbol.  It is vitally important to keep up to date and ensure all labels are meeting legal requirements.  We can help you fully understand your obligations and provide the best solution.

 

The other two new symbols in place are the Serious Health Hazard Warning & Gas Under Pressure shown above. Refer to http://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/index.htm

 

Further Regulations

To comply with current transport regulations all chemical and hazardous products must also be clearly and correctly labelled. Label materials and glues have to conform to legal guidelines such as BS5609. Your hazard labels can be custom printed or blank and are fully complaint with ADR, RID, IMDG and IATA regulations.

 

The Complete Hazard Label Solution

Gilly Print have the expertise to implement the legally correct and ideal label solution for your needs. Why not give us a call on 01590 718002 to see if we can help.