Chemical Safety

chemical labels examples

chemical safetychemical labels examples, what are the requirements for chemical labels, sample chemical label

Why chemical labels matter in chemical safety

Chemical labels are the first—and often fastest—source of hazard information a worker sees. They connect day-to-day handling and storage decisions to the details contained in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In workplaces covered by OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom), 29 CFR 1910.1200, labeling isn’t optional; it’s a core control that helps prevent exposures, spills, incompatible storage, and emergency response delays.

When people search for chemical labels examples, they’re usually trying to solve a practical problem: “What should my label look like so it’s compliant, readable, and useful?” This article breaks down label requirements, shows real-world examples, and provides a sample chemical label you can adapt.

What are the requirements for chemical labels?

OSHA’s HazCom standard requires chemical manufacturers and importers to label shipped containers, and it requires employers to ensure containers in the workplace are properly labeled as well. The exact approach differs depending on whether the container is the original shipped container or a secondary/workplace container.

Shipped container labeling (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(1))

Chemical manufacturers, importers, and distributors must ensure each shipped container is labeled with:

  • Product identifier (must match the identifier on the SDS)
  • Signal word (Danger or Warning)
  • Hazard statement(s) (standardized phrases describing hazards)
  • Pictogram(s) (GHS hazard symbols in a red diamond border)
  • Precautionary statement(s) (recommended measures for prevention/response/storage/disposal)
  • Name, address, and telephone number of the responsible party

These elements align with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) format adopted by OSHA.

Workplace/secondary container labeling (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(6))

Employers must ensure each container in the workplace is labeled, tagged, or marked with:

  • The product identifier, and
  • General information about the hazards of the chemical

OSHA allows some flexibility here. Many employers choose to replicate the full shipped-container label elements on secondary containers because it’s clear and consistent.

A best practice for compliance and safety: make sure the product identifier on the label matches the SDS exactly. This is a common failure point during inspections and incident investigations.

Chemical labels examples you’ll see in the workplace

Below are practical chemical labels examples that reflect common situations. Always verify that your label content aligns with the SDS and your hazard assessment.

Example 1: Original manufacturer label (GHS shipped container)

A typical shipped container label on a solvent might include:

  • Product Identifier: Acetone
  • Signal Word: Danger
  • Hazard Statements:
    • Highly flammable liquid and vapor
    • Causes serious eye irritation
    • May cause drowsiness or dizziness
  • Pictograms:
    • Flame
    • Exclamation mark
  • Precautionary Statements:
    • Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames
    • Wear eye protection
    • Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
  • Supplier Info: Manufacturer name + address + phone

What makes this compliant?

  • It includes all required HazCom (f)(1) elements.
  • It uses standardized GHS hazard/precautionary statements.
  • The product identifier should match Section 1 of the SDS.

Example 2: Secondary container label (spray bottle used on the shop floor)

A common challenge is labeling chemicals decanted from bulk containers into smaller bottles. Under 29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(6), these workplace containers must still be labeled unless they meet OSHA’s immediate-use exception (see next section).

A strong, simple label example:

  • Product Identifier: Glass Cleaner (contains isopropyl alcohol)
  • Key Hazards: Flammable; eye irritant
  • Safe Handling: Keep away from ignition sources; avoid eye contact
  • Reference: SDS available in SwiftSDS

Why this works

  • It clearly identifies the chemical and communicates hazards.
  • It supports worker understanding without overcrowding the label.
  • It points workers to the SDS location for full details.

Example 3: Immediate-use container (limited exception)

OSHA allows an exception for portable containers intended only for immediate use by the employee who transfers it (commonly known as the “immediate use” exception). If a worker pours a small amount into a beaker and uses it right away—without setting it down for later use—labeling may not be required.

Practical guidance:

  • If the container will be left unattended, shared, or used across a shift, label it.
  • If there’s any doubt, label it—this reduces risk and confusion.

Example 4: Stationary process container (totes, tanks, piping)

For large stationary containers (mix tanks, day tanks, reactors), labels must still communicate identity and hazards. Many sites use placards or signs near the container.

A common approach:

  • Product Identifier: Sodium Hydroxide Solution 25%
  • Hazards: Corrosive—causes severe skin burns and eye damage
  • PPE: Face shield; chemical gloves; apron
  • Emergency: Eyewash/shower location

This is also where consistent SDS access matters. With SwiftSDS, teams can standardize product identifiers across labels, inventory, and the SDS library so workers aren’t guessing which document applies.

Sample chemical label (template you can adapt)

Use this sample chemical label as a starting point for a secondary container or workplace label. Adjust content to match your SDS.

  • Product Identifier: __________________________
  • Signal Word (optional but recommended): Danger / Warning
  • Pictogram(s) (optional but recommended): __________________________
  • Key Hazards: _________________________________________________
  • Precautions/PPE: ______________________________________________
  • First Aid (brief): ____________________________________________
  • SDS Location: ______________________________ (e.g., SwiftSDS mobile app)
  • Prepared by / Date: __________________________

Keep labels legible, durable, and in a prominent location. A perfect label that smears off in a week won’t help in an emergency.

Common label mistakes that lead to risk (and citations)

Even with good intentions, labeling programs fail in predictable ways. Watch for these issues:

  • Mismatched product names (label says “degreaser,” SDS is filed under a vendor product code)
  • Unlabeled spray bottles used across shifts
  • Handwritten abbreviations no one understands
  • Outdated labels after a product reformulation or vendor change
  • Relying on color-coding alone without text (not sufficient by itself)

OSHA also requires employers to maintain a written hazard communication program and ensure training is provided (29 CFR 1910.1200(h)). Labels are only effective when workers understand what they mean and can find the SDS quickly.

How SwiftSDS helps solve SDS and labeling challenges

A labeling program is easier to maintain when it’s tied to a well-managed SDS system. SwiftSDS supports chemical safety by helping you:

  • Build a centralized SDS library so workers can access the right SDS immediately
  • Keep product identifiers consistent across SDSs, labels, and inventory
  • Support OSHA HazCom (29 CFR 1910.1200) alignment with organized documentation
  • Manage chemical inventory (locations, quantities, expiration dates) so labels stay tied to what’s actually on-site
  • Enable mobile access, making it practical for workers to verify hazards at the point of use

If you’re creating many secondary labels, having the SDS available on any device reduces guesswork and speeds up safe handling decisions.

Practical next steps for better chemical labeling

  1. Inventory every chemical and confirm you have the current SDS.
  2. Standardize naming conventions (product identifier format) across your facility.
  3. Decide on a workplace labeling approach:
    • Full GHS-style labels on secondary containers, or
    • A compliant workplace label with clear hazards + SDS reference
  4. Audit weekly or monthly for unlabeled containers and illegible labels.
  5. Train employees on label elements, pictograms, and how to access SDSs.

For additional guidance, see SDS Management.

Call to action

Chemical labels save time, prevent exposures, and support OSHA compliance—but only when they’re consistent and connected to accurate SDS information. If you’re managing multiple products, vendors, and secondary containers, streamline the process with SwiftSDS. Centralize your SDS library, align product identifiers, and give workers instant mobile access to critical hazard information.

Ready to simplify labeling and SDS access? Explore SwiftSDS and standardize your chemical safety program today.