Emedco's Blog

Many companies use chemicals as an integral part of the way they make products, provide services or keep their facilities clean. To protect workers from potential chemical hazards, OSHA requires employers to label each chemical in their facility with the identity of the chemical and the appropriate hazard warning.

There are multiple labeling formats you can choose from to ensure you are in compliance with OSHAs’ regulations. Your options?

1. National Fire Protection Association Format (NFPA):
The NFPA format for hazard communication labels, signs and tags is the most common format available. This format’s signature graphic is the four-color diamond. The colors on the diamond indicate the type of hazard, while the numbers, letters and/or symbols indicate the severity of the hazard.

Color reference is as follows:

• Red = Fire Hazard
• Yellow = Instability/ Orange = Physical Hazard
• Blue = Health Hazard
• White = Specific Hazards or Protective Equipment

In addition to the standard NFPA label, there are two other NFPA formats – each featuring slight modifications.

The first is the Target Organ format. This format includes diagrams or check boxes where you can  indicate specific areas of the body that the chemical could have an effect on, such as the skin, lungs, eyes, etc.

The second is the Personal Protection format. This format features check boxes or icons where you can designate required personal protective equipment that must be used when handling the chemical, such as safety glasses or gloves.

2. Color Bar Identification System
Unlike the NFPA format hazcom label, the color bar identification system format does not feature the diamond symbol. The color bar format is set up exactly how it sounds, 3-4 color bars that indicate types of hazards and the severity level of that hazard.

Whichever format you choose, just ensure your chemicals are clearly and accurately labeled in your facility to avoid injuries and protect your employees.