GHS Safety Labels: Requirements, Components & Where To Buy

Every chemical container in the workplace tells a story—one that can mean the difference between a safe environment and a critical incident. GHS safety labels, rooted in the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, serve as the universal language for hazard communication. These standardized labels are not just stickers; they are essential tools that empower workers to recognize risks at a glance, support regulatory compliance, and create a safer, more informed workplace. For safety managers, compliance officers, operations leaders, and business owners, understanding GHS requirements isn’t just a box to check—it’s a responsibility that protects people and organizations alike.

This article unpacks the essentials of GHS safety labels: their regulatory foundation under OSHA, the critical components every label must include, design and material specifications, and practical tools for creating or sourcing compliant labels. Whether you’re building a new chemical safety program or looking to fine-tune your existing processes, you’ll find clear guidance on compliance, best practices, and how to choose the right labels for your facility. Let’s explore how GHS labeling can transform hazard communication from a regulatory burden into a cornerstone of workplace safety.

What Are GHS Safety Labels and Why Are They Essential?

GHS safety labels act as a universal warning system for hazardous chemicals, translating complex safety data into clear, concise visual cues. By standardizing label elements—like pictograms, signal words, and hazard statements—GHS labels ensure that anyone handling a chemical can quickly grasp its risks, no matter where in the world they work. This uniform approach cuts through the confusion of varied labeling practices and makes chemical safety accessible to everyone from experienced chemists to occasional users, effectively serving as the universal language for hazard communication.

Definition of GHS Safety Labels

Under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 29 CFR 1910.1200), a label is “any written, printed or graphic information that is affixed to, printed on, or attached to containers of hazardous chemicals.” GHS safety labels must accompany every container of a hazardous chemical in the workplace. They consolidate key data—product identifier, hazard pictograms, signal word, hazard and precautionary statements, and supplier information—into a single, standardized format.

Purpose and Benefits of GHS Labeling

Implementing GHS labeling delivers multiple advantages:

Improved hazard recognition: standardized pictograms and statements make risks apparent at a glance.
Consistency across workplaces: identical label layouts reduce training time and eliminate guesswork.
Easier regulatory audits: complete, uniform labels align with OSHA’s requirements and simplify compliance checks.
Reduced accidents and misunderstandings: uniform language cuts down on misinterpretation, especially in multilingual environments.

Actionable example:
Imagine two bottles of ethanol in a lab. A non-standard decal might read “Flammable—Keep away from heat,” leaving out toxicity or storage instructions. A GHS-compliant label, by contrast, displays the flame pictogram, the signal word “Danger,” hazard statements (“Highly flammable liquid and vapor”), precautionary statements (“Keep container tightly closed”), and supplier details. The difference could mean catching a critical hazard before an incident occurs.

Key Differences from Traditional Safety Decals

Feature	Generic Safety Decals	GHS Safety Labels
Content	Free-form warnings (e.g., “Caution: Corrosive”)	Standardized elements: product ID, pictograms, hazard/precautionary statements
Format	Varies by supplier and design preference	Fixed layout per HCS: red diamond borders, specified font sizes
Mandatory Elements	Supplier’s choice of messages and symbols	Product identifier, signal word, pictogram(s), hazard and precautionary statements, supplier information
Color Scheme	Any color combinations	Black text on white background; red border for pictograms
Language & Terminology	Non-standard phrasing	GHS phrases aligned with Safety Data Sheet terminology

This clear contrast highlights why GHS labels move beyond simple “caution” stickers to deliver reliable, repeatable hazard communication that works across industries and borders.

Regulatory Framework: OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard & GHS Implementation

Ensuring chemical hazards are communicated effectively starts with a clear legal foundation. In the United States, OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) serves as the backbone for labeling requirements. In 2012, OSHA revised HCS to align with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System, mandating a uniform approach to classifying chemicals, updating Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and standardizing labels. Employers across manufacturing, laboratories, and every sector that handles hazardous chemicals must meet specific duties—labeling containers correctly, maintaining up-to-date SDSs, and training employees on hazard recognition. Failure to comply can trigger OSHA inspections, citations, and monetary penalties, making understanding the standard more than a paperwork exercise—it’s a step toward preventing workplace incidents and avoiding costly fines.

Overview of OSHA HCS 29 CFR 1910.1200

The HCS 29 CFR 1910.1200 sets out three core requirements:

Classification: Employers must evaluate chemicals in their inventory according to GHS criteria for physical, health, and environmental hazards.
Safety Data Sheets: Updated SDSs (formerly MSDS) provide detailed hazard and handling information in a standardized 16-section format.
Labels: Every hazardous chemical container needs a label that conveys essential information at a glance.

By referencing 29 CFR 1910.1200, safety managers can review the full legal text. The revisions adopted GHS concepts—such as harmonized classification categories and fixed label elements—so that U.S. requirements now mirror those used worldwide.

Mandatory Label Elements under HCS

OSHA’s updated HCS requires that every label display six standardized elements, ensuring consistency and clarity:

Product Identifier: The chemical name, code number, or batch identifier that matches the SDS.
Signal Word: “Danger” or “Warning” to indicate relative hazard severity.
Pictogram(s): One or more red-diamond hazard symbols (for example, flame for flammables, skull and crossbones for acute toxicity).
Hazard Statements: Standardized phrases describing the nature and degree of hazards (e.g., “Causes skin irritation”).
Precautionary Statements: Recommended measures to prevent or respond to exposure (for example, “Wear protective gloves”).
Supplier Identification: Manufacturer or importer name, full address, and a phone number for additional information or emergencies.

Labels must be printed in English (U.S.), legible at the point of use, and remain intact and readable throughout the chemical’s life cycle.

Integration of GHS into U.S. Regulations

OSHA’s alignment with GHS unfolded in phases:

March 2012: Final rule published, introducing hazard classification and label element changes.
June 2015: All employers were required to update labels and SDSs for newly shipped chemicals.
December 2015: Distributors and downstream users had to complete the transition, ensuring older labels were replaced as stocks were exhausted.

During the transitional period, containers bearing pre-GHS labels could remain in service until empty, provided an updated SDS was available. After the deadlines, any chemical container lacking a fully GHS-compliant label could lead to an OSHA citation. By understanding these milestones, safety teams can verify that every container in their facility carries the correct, up-to-date information, safeguarding employees and keeping inspectors satisfied.

Global Harmonization: The UN GHS Purple Book and Classification Criteria

Standardized chemical hazard communication relies on a single authoritative source: the UN’s “Purple Book,” formally titled the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. Published by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), this reference consolidates classification algorithms, hazard criteria, and label elements into one global standard. By adopting the Purple Book, countries and companies worldwide speak the same safety language, reducing confusion in international supply chains, research collaborations, and emergency responses.

GHS Rev.9 Classification Criteria Overview

The ninth revision of the Purple Book lays out clear classification rules for three hazard classes:

Physical Hazards cover properties like flammability, explosiveness, and oxidizing potential. For example, a liquid with a flash point below 23 °C and an initial boiling point above 35 °C is classified as “Highly Flammable Liquid” (Category 2).
Health Hazards address acute toxicity, skin and eye corrosion/irritation, respiratory sensitization, and more. Acute toxicity testing employs LD50 (lethal dose) and LC50 (lethal concentration) values to assign severity categories.
Environmental Hazards focus on aquatic toxicity and ozone depletion potential. Standard assays—such as the 96-hour fish toxicity test—define concentration thresholds for Categories 1 through 3.

Each category includes precise numerical cutoffs, ensuring that whether a chemical is evaluated in Tokyo or Toronto, it fits the same hazard classification scheme.

Pictogram Design Specifications

GHS pictograms aren’t just icons—they’re carefully engineered safety cues. Key design rules require:

A bold black symbol set against a white field, framed by a red diamond border.
Minimum dimensions of 1 in × 1 in (25 mm × 25 mm) on small containers, scaled proportionally for larger labels.
Red borders printed at a minimum of 80% color intensity, with crisp black symbols to maximize legibility.
Consistent placement near the signal word and hazard statements, so the user’s eye is drawn first to critical warnings.

Adhering to these specs ensures pictograms remain visible and unambiguous, even in low-light or high-traffic environments.

Benefits of International Consistency

Following one global standard delivers real advantages for organizations operating across borders:

Simplifies trade: a single, compliant label works in multiple countries, eliminating redesign costs.
Streamlines training: workers, regardless of location, learn the same symbols and phrases, cutting down on interpretation errors.
Enhances emergency response: first responders rely on familiar pictograms to assess hazards instantly, even when chemical names or languages differ.

In a multinational laboratory, corporate distribution network, or cross-continental shipping route, the Purple Book’s unified criteria and pictogram standards keep everyone on the same page—literally—when it matters most.

Essential Elements of GHS Safety Labels: Product Identifier & Supplier Information

Every GHS safety label begins with two foundational pieces of information: what the chemical is and who supplied it. These details anchor the entire hazard communication system, ensuring that anyone inspecting a container can immediately tie the label back to an SDS or reach out for more information. Let’s break down these critical header elements.

Product Identifier Requirements

The product identifier tells the reader exactly which substance they’re dealing with. OSHA requires that the identifier on the label match the one used on the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and on any purchase orders or inventory records. Acceptable identifiers include:

The chemical name as it appears on the SDS (e.g., “Ethanol”).
A trade name or proprietary name recognized by the supplier (e.g., “Denatured Alcohol”).
A code number or alphanumeric batch identifier, if that’s the company’s standard practice.
The CAS number (e.g., “CAS 64-17-5”) to eliminate ambiguity.

Think of the product identifier as the chemical’s legal name tag: if it doesn’t match the SDS, you risk mixing up hazard information and compromising safety. For instance, labeling a bottle simply as “Alcohol” instead of “Ethanol (CAS 64-17-5)” might sound harmless until someone confuses it with isopropanol or methyl alcohol.

Supplier Identification Details

Supplier identification ensures that users know exactly who manufactured or imported the chemical and how to contact them. A compliant label must include:

Full company name (no abbreviations).
Street address (a P.O. Box alone isn’t enough; include city, state, and ZIP).
Telephone number for additional information or emergency response.

Emergency contact numbers—such as a 24-hour hotline—are strongly recommended, especially for high-hazard chemicals. Here’s a typical supplier block:

ACME Chemical Company
100 Industrial Road
Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (800) 123-4567

Keeping this contact information clear and legible helps first responders and end users quickly reach out if they encounter unexpected hazards or need technical data beyond what’s on the label.

Example of a Compliant Label Header

Below is a simplified layout showing how product and supplier details can be positioned at the top of a GHS label. Note that font sizes should be large enough for easy reading—typically no smaller than 6 pt for secondary text and 8–10 pt for primary headers.

Product Identifier	Supplier Information
Ethanol CAS 64-17-5	ACME Chemical Company 100 Industrial Road Detroit, MI 48201 Phone: (800) 123-4567

In this example, the product identifier is bolded and placed on the left, drawing immediate attention. The supplier block sits on the right, formatted with clear line breaks for readability. Consistent alignment, adequate white space, and legible font sizes keep the header both informative and professional—a small investment in design that pays off in safety and compliance.

Signal Words: Conveying Hazard Severity on GHS Labels

Signal words are your label’s fastest way to grab attention. By featuring either “Danger” or “Warning” prominently, a person handling or inspecting a chemical container can immediately gauge how serious the hazards are. This single word sits atop the hazard information hierarchy on a GHS label, acting as a quick visual cue before anyone even reads the detailed statements or inspects the pictograms.

Beyond catching the eye, signal words streamline safety training and on-the-job decision-making. Whether in a busy production line, a crowded lab or a dimly lit storage room, seeing “Danger” at a glance signals the need for extra caution, while “Warning” flags a moderate risk. Let’s dig into how these two terms work, when to use each, and what happens when you mix multiple chemicals.

Definition and Function of Signal Words

GHS specifies only two signal words:

Danger: Reserved for the most severe hazard categories.
Warning: Applied to less severe, but still significant, hazards.

“Danger” indicates a high-level threat—think acute toxicity, corrosive damage, or explosive potential. It’s a red flag that says, “Stop. This substance can cause life-threatening injury if mishandled.” By contrast, “Warning” serves up caution for hazards that are serious but not immediately life-ending, such as mild irritants or lower-level flammables.

This hierarchy ensures that every label carries a consistent visual indicator of severity. When both words appear in a training session or safety data sheet, workers quickly learn that “Danger” demands maximum protective measures, while “Warning” still requires care but allows for slightly less stringent controls.

Criteria for “Danger” vs. “Warning”

Which signal word you choose depends on the hazard category assigned during classification. Here are some typical examples:

Danger
- Acute toxicity (Category 1–3)
- Skin corrosion (Category 1)
- Serious eye damage (Category 1)
- Explosives (all categories)
Warning
- Acute toxicity (Category 4)
- Skin irritation (Category 2)
- Narcotic effects (Category 3)
- Specific target-organ toxicity (single exposure, Category 3)

For instance, a bottle of hydrochloric acid (skin corrosion Category 1) must use “Danger.” A container of a weak irritant spray (skin irritation Category 2) carries “Warning.” By matching each hazard category to the correct word, labels maintain consistency and prevent any guesswork about a chemical’s risk level.

Handling Signal Words in Chemical Mixtures

When you blend chemicals, the rule is simple: go with the most severe signal word required by any component in the mixture. Even if one ingredient only calls for “Warning,” mixing it with a substance demanding “Danger” means the entire label must display “Danger.”

Example scenario: You combine a mild solvent classified with a “Warning” signal word and a toxic intermediate carrying “Danger.” The mixture’s label must show “Danger”—that single word communicates the highest hazard present. Conversely, if all ingredients only warrant “Warning,” the label stays at that level. This approach ensures nobody underestimates the risks in a complex blend of chemicals.

GHS Pictograms Explained: The Nine Hazard Symbols

Chemical hazards can be intimidating—but GHS pictograms turn complex risk information into easy-to-read icons. Each symbol sits inside a red diamond and points to a specific danger class, so workers can spot and respond to hazards in a split second. Let’s walk through the nine official GHS pictograms, how to pick the right ones for mixtures, and where to find clear visual examples for your labels.

List of the Nine Official GHS Pictograms

Here’s a quick rundown of every GHS symbol you may see on a label:

Health Hazard
Symbol: Person silhouette with a burst in the chest
Hazard class: Carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, respiratory sensitization, reproductive toxicity, target-organ toxicity, aspiration hazard
Description: Indicates long-term or systemic health effects.
Flame
Symbol: Stylized flame
Hazard class: Flammable gases, liquids, solids; self-reactive substances; pyrophorics; self-heating substances; organic peroxides
Description: Denotes fire risk—anything that can ignite easily or react violently with air.
Exclamation Mark
Symbol: Bold exclamation point
Hazard class: Acute toxicity (Category 4), skin/eye irritation, skin sensitization, specific target-organ toxicity (single exposure), narcotic effects
Description: Warns of less severe but still significant hazards, like irritants and certain toxins.
Gas Cylinder
Symbol: Gas cylinder silhouette
Hazard class: Gases under pressure
Description: Covers compressed, liquefied, dissolved, or refrigerated liquefied gases—think cylinders and tanks.
Corrosion
Symbol: Test tubes pouring onto hand and metal
Hazard class: Skin corrosion/burns, eye damage, corrosive to metals
Description: Signals chemical burns or material degradation.
Exploding Bomb
Symbol: Bomb bursting
Hazard class: Explosives, self-reactive substances, organic peroxides
Description: Marks materials that can detonate or cause a rapid release of pressure, gas, or heat.
Flame Over Circle
Symbol: Flame atop a circle
Hazard class: Oxidizers (gases, liquids, solids)
Description: Identifies substances that feed a fire—or make one worse—by providing oxygen.
Skull and Crossbones
Symbol: Skull above two crossed bones
Hazard class: Acute toxicity (Categories 1–3)
Description: Represents potentially fatal or highly toxic chemicals if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed.
Environment (Non-mandatory under OSHA)
Symbol: Dead tree and fish
Hazard class: Aquatic toxicity
Description: Highlights hazards to aquatic life; required in transport or international contexts, though typically omitted under U.S. workplace labeling.

Pictogram Use Hierarchy in Mixtures

When a mixture contains multiple hazardous ingredients, you don’t plaster every single pictogram on the label. Instead, apply the most severe symbols for each hazard class. For example, if one component calls for the Skull and Crossbones (acute toxicity Category 2) and another only needs the Exclamation Mark (acute toxicity Category 4), you include the skull and crossbones alone. This “worst-case” approach keeps labels concise yet still flags the highest level of danger.

Visual Examples of Pictograms

For official artwork, colors, and layout details, check out the GHS hazard pictograms page on Wikipedia. These images show the precise red-diamond border, black icon, and white background you’ll need to match on your labels. Remember: pictograms must be printed in color, at specified sizes, and placed near the signal word and hazard statements so nothing gets overlooked.

(See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GHS_hazard_pictograms)

Hazard Statements: Communicating the Nature and Degree of Hazards

Labels do more than just catch the eye—they must also convey exactly how a chemical can harm you. Hazard statements are standardized phrases that describe the nature and severity of risks associated with a substance. By pulling directly from the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), these statements ensure anyone reading the label understands the specific dangers, whether it’s a flammable vapor, a corrosive burn, or a toxic effect.

Every hazard statement on the SDS that applies to the chemical must appear on the label. Consistency in wording and terminology eliminates confusion and helps safety managers train employees on clear, uniform messages. Let’s look at what hazard statements are, how they tie back to hazard classes, and how to handle them when you’re dealing with mixtures.

What Are Hazard Statements?

Hazard statements are concise, GHS-mandated sentences that spell out the risk. Examples include:

“Highly flammable liquid and vapor.”
“Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.”
“Toxic if inhaled.”

Each phrase begins with a capital letter and ends with a period, adhering to the exact language defined by GHS. This standardized wording comes straight from the SDS, ensuring that the label and the data sheet speak the same language. Omitting or altering these phrases can lead to miscommunication, undermine safety training, and risk non-compliance.

Mapping Hazard Statements to Hazard Classes

GHS groups hazards into classes (flammability, toxicity, corrosion, etc.), and each class has one or more specific hazard statements. Here’s a sample mapping:

Hazard Class	Example Statement
Flammable Liquids (Category 1–2)	Highly flammable liquid and vapor.
Acute Toxicity (Category 1–3)	Fatal if inhaled.
Skin Corrosion (Category 1)	Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
Specific Target-Organ Toxicity	May cause damage to organs through prolonged exposure.

When you classify a chemical, you reference the GHS criteria—flash point, LD₅₀/LC₅₀ values, corrosivity tests, etc.—to determine which statement(s) apply. Then you transfer those exact phrases onto the label, so a worker sees “Highly flammable liquid and vapor” and knows right away that the product meets Category 1 or 2 flammable criteria.

Combining and Omitting Redundant Statements

In mixtures, multiple components may call for similar or overlapping hazard statements. To keep labels clear and concise, GHS rules say you should:

Combine statements that are unique to different hazard classes.
In the same hazard class, include only the most severe statement.

For instance, if Component A is “Harmful if swallowed” and Component B is “Fatal if swallowed,” the mixture label displays “Fatal if swallowed.” This “worst-case” approach highlights the highest risk without cluttering the label. Similarly, if one ingredient is “Causes respiratory irritation” and another is “May cause respiratory irritation,” you’d display only the first, more definitive phrase.

By following these rules, labels stay focused on the most critical hazards and remain legible—even when a mixture carries multiple risks.

Precautionary Statements: Detailing Preventive and Response Measures

Precautionary statements, or P-statements, translate hazard information into practical instructions for preventing and responding to chemical exposures. While hazard statements describe what can go wrong, P-statements tell you what to do—or not do—to stay safe. By grouping these statements into standardized categories, GHS labels deliver clear, actionable guidance directly on the container.

Precautionary Statement Categories

GHS divides precautionary instructions into four major groups, each beginning with a three-digit P-code:

Prevention (P2xx): Steps to minimize or avoid exposure.
• P210 Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces. No smoking.
• P280 Wear protective gloves and protective clothing.
Response (P3xx): Actions to take if an incident occurs.
• P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water and soap.
• P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
Storage (P4xx): Conditions for safe storage.
• P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
• P405 Store locked up.
Disposal (P5xx): Proper waste handling and disposal.
• P501 Dispose of contents and container in accordance with local regulations.
• P501 (alternative) Return unused material to a hazardous-waste collection point.

Best Practices for Comprehensive Coverage

To craft effective labels, cross-reference the P-statements listed on your SDS with the hazards you’ve identified. Start by listing every P-statement from the SDS, then:

Eliminate duplicates: If multiple hazards share the same response, include the single statement once.
Group similar tasks: Combine P302 and P352 into “IF ON SKIN: Wash with water and soap (P302+P352).”
Prioritize by relevance: Put Prevention statements first, followed by Response, Storage, and Disposal to match the workflow—handling, emergency, storing, then discarding.

This approach keeps labels concise, ensures you meet regulatory requirements, and helps workers find the right instructions in an emergency.

Example Precautionary Statement Table

Below is a sample table showing how common hazard statements align with their corresponding P-codes and instructions:

Hazard Statement	Precautionary Statement
Highly flammable liquid and vapor	P210 Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. No smoking.
Causes skin irritation	P280 Wear protective gloves. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
Toxic if swallowed	P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P301+P310 IF SWALLOWED: Call a poison center immediately.
May cause respiratory irritation	P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air.

By mapping each hazard to its P-statements, you guarantee that anyone handling or responding to a chemical can quickly identify the correct preventive and emergency measures.

Technical Design Specifications: Color, Size and Material Requirements

Getting the look and feel of your GHS safety labels right is about more than aesthetics—it’s about durability, clarity, and compliance. By adhering to strict color, size, and material guidelines, you ensure that every label remains legible throughout its service life, even under harsh conditions. Below, we break down the essential design specs you need to consider.

Color and Contrast Requirements

A GHS label’s visual hierarchy hinges on clear contrast. Key rules include:

Black text on a white background for all written elements. This maximizes readability and meets OSHA’s legibility requirements.
Pictograms must feature a bold black symbol on a white field, surrounded by a red diamond border. The red border should be printed with at least 80% color intensity in CMYK (e.g., 0 C, 100 M, 100 Y, 0 K) or Pantone equivalent.
Ensure a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 between text and background (this aligns with common print standards), so that small type remains distinguishable even when labels are viewed at an angle or under poor lighting.
Avoid decorative fonts or color gradients—stick to sans-serif faces (e.g., Arial, Helvetica) and solid fills for all elements.

By using these specifications, your labels will remain crisp and unmistakable, cutting through visual “noise” in busy work environments.

Minimum Label Size and Readability

Label size directly impacts how quickly workers can absorb critical hazard information:

For small containers (under 250 mL), a minimum overall label dimension of 2″ × 3″ is recommended. This allows space for a 1″ × 1″ pictogram, signal word, and concise statements.
For larger drums or canisters, scale the layout so the pictogram remains at least 25 mm (1 in) on each side. Containers over 1 L should have labels no smaller than 4″ × 6″.
Font size guidelines: – Primary text (product ID, “Danger”/“Warning”): 8 pt minimum.
– Secondary text (hazard/precautionary statements, supplier information): 6 pt minimum.
Maintain at least 1 mm (0.04 in) of clear space around each label edge to prevent cropping or wear at the margins.

These dimensions and type sizes ensure that labels remain legible from a safe handling distance (about 30 cm), minimizing read errors and improving on-the-job compliance.

Material and Adhesive Considerations

Selecting the right substrate and adhesive keeps your GHS labels intact, even when exposed to chemicals, moisture, temperature extremes, or prolonged outdoor use. Common options include:

Paper stock
• Cost-effective for indoor, dry environments.
• Limited resistance to oil, solvents, and UV—best for short-term applications.
Polyester (PET)
• Excellent chemical resistance, strong tear-resistance, and good dimensional stability.
• Suitable for both indoor and light outdoor use—won’t yellow under fluorescent lighting.
Vinyl (PVC)
• Flexible and durable, ideal for curved or irregular containers.
• Resists moisture and many industrial cleaners.

Adhesive types to match your conditions:

Permanent acrylic – general-purpose, holds up in ambient temperatures from -40 °F to 200 °F.
High-tack rubber – bonds quickly to rough or oily surfaces but may degrade in direct sunlight.
Low-temperature formulation – stays pliable in freezers and cold rooms (down to -65 °F).

When in doubt, opt for polyester labels with an acrylic adhesive—they strike the best balance between durability, chemical resistance, and cost. Testing a small run under your actual process conditions will confirm the right combination of material and adhesive for your GHS safety labels.

Creating and Customizing GHS Safety Labels: Tools, Templates and Best Practices

Whether you’re printing labels in-house or working with a vendor, a structured approach will save time and reduce errors. Start by gathering your SDS data—product identifiers, hazard and precautionary statements, pictograms, signal words, and supplier details. From there, you’ll choose between blank templates or design software, decide on hardware or outsourcing, and apply best practices that keep your labels consistent and compliant. Below, we walk through each step so you can build and maintain a reliable GHS labeling workflow.

Using GHS Label Templates

GHS label templates give you a head start, with all mandatory fields laid out in the correct order and dimensions. You can find free blank templates on OSHA’s website, or download pre-formatted files from label vendors like Brady, Uline, or Safety Decals’ own sticker builder tool. Here’s how to make the most of them:

Download a template sized for your container (for example, 2"×3" for small bottles or 4"×6" for drums).
Open the file in a PDF editor or graphics program.
Populate fields directly from your SDS:
- Product identifier (exact match).
- Signal word (“Danger” or “Warning”).
- Applicable pictograms.
- Hazard and precautionary statements (use the exact GHS phrasing).
- Supplier block (company name, full address, emergency number).
Verify font sizes (≥8 pt for headings, ≥6 pt for body text) and ensure each pictogram is at least 1"×1".
Save a master copy for version control, then export print-ready PDFs or native files for your print setup.

By starting with a reliable template, you avoid layout mistakes and ensure every label element lives in its proper place.

Label Design Software and Configuration Tools

When you need to manage hundreds or thousands of labels across multiple users, dedicated labeling software pays off. Applications like Brady Workstation, BarTender, or ZebraDesigner offer built-in GHS templates, database integration, and user permissions. Key advantages include:

Centralized template library, so every department uses the same approved design.
Dynamic fields linked to your chemical inventory database, reducing copy-and-paste errors.
Version control and audit trails, capturing who updated a template and when.
Collaboration features that let safety, compliance, and procurement teams review labels before printing.

If you’re a smaller operation, an online label builder—such as the one at Safety Decals—lets you click, customize, and download without installing software. Either way, look for tools that support multi-format exports (PDF, PNG, ZPL) and integrate with your SDS management system.

Label Printing Hardware Options

Choosing the right printer comes down to your label volume, material requirements, and workspace conditions:

Thermal transfer: Uses a heated ribbon to fuse resin or wax-resin inks onto polyester or vinyl stock. Ideal for long-life, chemical-resistant GHS labels.
Direct thermal: Prints on specially coated paper without a ribbon. Good for short-term labels or low-abrasion environments.
Inkjet: Offers full-color printing for small batches or complex designs but may require extra drying time and is less solvent-resistant.

Pair your printer choice with matching consumables—resin ribbon for high-heat or chemical exposure, permanent acrylic adhesive for oily or cold surfaces—and conduct a small trial run to confirm legibility, adhesion, and durability before committing to a bulk order. If you prefer to skip internal printing altogether, Safety Decals can produce ready-to-apply, GHS-compliant labels on the substrate of your choice, delivered straight to your facility.

By leveraging templates, design tools, and the right printer setup, you’ll streamline GHS label creation, maintain consistency, and keep every container in your facility up to standard.

Where to Buy GHS Safety Labels: Top Suppliers and Purchasing Tips

Finding a reliable source for GHS safety labels can streamline compliance efforts and ensure your labels meet legal and durability requirements. Whether you need ready-to-apply, pre-printed decals or fully customizable sheets, several specialized vendors offer GHS-compliant products in a range of materials and formats. Below, we highlight leading suppliers, outline key factors to weigh when purchasing, and provide a comparison table to help you make an informed decision.

Specialized Online Suppliers

Many businesses turn to dedicated label houses for GHS-approved solutions. Here are five top online vendors:

MySafetyLabels (mysafetylabels.com/ghs-labels)
Offers both pre-printed and custom GHS labels in paper and polyester. Their user-friendly template tool lets you upload your SDS data, adjust layouts, and order small runs with fast turnaround.
Brady (bradyid.com/chemical-labels/ghs)
A leader in industrial identification, Brady provides pre-formatted GHS templates for their Workstation software, plus a wide selection of durable vinyl and polyester stocks. Bulk and on-demand printing options are available.
Uline (uline.com/BL_1596/GHS-Pictogram-Labels)
Specializes in pre-printed pictogram labels and blank sheets that you can fill in house. Uline’s same-day shipping and broad adhesives portfolio make them ideal for quick replenishment.
Labelmaster (labelmaster.com/ghs)
Focused on hazardous materials, Labelmaster carries weather-resistant GHS labels for transport and workplace use. They offer custom design services for large orders and detailed regulatory guidance.
GMP Labeling (gmplabeling.com/stock-labels/chemical-labels/ghs-labels)
Provides economical stock GHS labels in paper and polyester, along with a basic editing interface. Minimum order quantities are low, and standard lead times are 2–3 business days.

Key Purchasing Considerations

When evaluating suppliers, keep these factors in mind:

Regulatory compliance guarantee
Ensure the vendor explicitly states that their labels meet OSHA HCS 1910.1200 and UN GHS Rev.9 requirements.
Material options
Compare paper, polyester, and vinyl substrates to match your environmental conditions (chemical exposure, UV, cold storage).
Customization capabilities
Look for online design tools or templating software that let you populate GHS fields accurately and preview the final layout.
Minimum order quantities (MOQs)
Balance upfront costs and waste—smaller MOQs can be valuable for limited-use chemicals or pilot programs.
Turnaround time
Fast production and shipping can be critical if you’re replacing non-compliant labels on short notice.
Pricing and volume discounts
Price per label often decreases with larger orders; factor in ribbon, sheet, or roll costs when comparing total expenses.

Comparing Supplier Offerings

Supplier	Product Types	Materials	Customization	Turnaround	Price Estimate
MySafetyLabels	Pre-printed, custom sheets	Paper, polyester	Online template editor	1–2 days	From $25/100 labels
Brady	On-demand, bulk printing	Vinyl, polyester	Workstation software	3–5 business days	Mid-range
Uline	Pictogram rolls, blank	Vinyl	Manual fill-in	Same-day shipping	From $20/roll
Labelmaster	Transport, workplace	Weather-resistant PET	Custom design service	5–7 business days	From $50/sheet
GMP Labeling	Stock sheets	Paper, polyester	Basic online editing	2–3 business days	From $30/pack

Use this table to weigh which supplier best fits your workflow, budget, and compliance needs. Ordering from a specialized provider not only guarantees adherence to GHS specifications but also often includes technical support and material recommendations—helping you implement a safe, reliable labeling program with minimal guesswork.

Selecting the Right Label Materials: Durability and Environmental Considerations

Not all label materials are created equal. The substrate and adhesive you choose for your GHS safety labels directly impact their lifespan, readability, and overall compliance. A label that peels, smudges, or fades under harsh conditions can lead to miscommunication, increased risk, and even regulatory citations. Before ordering a batch of labels, it’s crucial to match material properties to the specific challenges of your environment—whether that’s a sun-baked tank farm, a chilled warehouse, or a chemical-soaked production line.

Understanding the key stressors your labels will face—and balancing them against cost and convenience—will help you zero in on the optimal combination of substrate and adhesive. Below, we explore the main environmental factors, compare common materials, and outline how to weigh performance against budget.

Environmental and Durability Factors

Every workplace comes with its own set of conditions that test a label’s resilience. Common exposures include:

UV and sunlight
Prolonged outdoor use can cause fading or embrittlement.
Chemical contact
Acids, solvents, oils, and detergents can smear or dissolve paper labels.
Moisture and humidity
Condensation, steam, or immersion can lead to adhesive failure and ink run.
Abrasion and handling
Frequent contact with gloves, tools, or conveyor surfaces can wear away text and graphics.
Temperature extremes
Freezer-cold or steam-clean cycles may crack some adhesives or substrates.

First, catalogue the toughest conditions your labels will endure. A label on a drum stored outdoors needs UV stability, while a label inside a cryogenic freezer needs a low-temperature adhesive. Once you’ve mapped these factors, you can match them to materials designed for each challenge—avoiding trial-and-error costs later on.

Material Types and Their Properties

Here are three widely used label substrates and how they stand up to environmental demands:

Gloss Paper
• Pros: Low cost; high print quality for indoor applications.
• Cons: Poor resistance to moisture, solvents, and abrasion; may yellow over time.
Matte Polyester (PET)
• Pros: Excellent chemical and tear resistance; stable from –40 °F to 300 °F; won’t yellow under UV.
• Cons: Higher cost; may require a more aggressive adhesive to stick to rough surfaces.
Vinyl (PVC)
• Pros: Flexible on curved or textured surfaces; good moisture and chemical resistance; stays pliable in cold.
• Cons: Less tear-resistant than polyester; can stretch or shrink under extreme heat.

Each substrate pairs with specific adhesives—acrylic for long-term outdoor use, rubber-based for quick tack on oily surfaces, or specialized cold-temperature formulations for freezer labels. Choose combinations that address both substrate durability and adhesive performance in your environment.

Cost vs. Performance Trade-offs

Balancing budget with label longevity pays off in the long run. Lower-cost paper labels might seem attractive for occasional indoor use, but frequent re-labeling and scrap costs can add up. On the other hand, premium polyester labels hold up for years in harsh conditions, reducing downtime and replacement orders.

Best practices for navigating these trade-offs:

Pilot test: Order small runs of each material-adhesive combo and subject them to your actual workplace stresses—chemical spills, freezer cycles, UV exposure, etc.
Calculate total cost of ownership: Factor in the cost of label failures—re-printing, labor time, and potential compliance gaps—rather than focusing solely on sticker price.
Standardize where possible: If one material works for most of your applications, consolidating orders can lower per-label costs and simplify inventory.

By investing a bit of time in material selection and testing up front, you’ll avoid the hidden costs of label failures and ensure that your GHS safety labels remain clear, legible, and compliant throughout their service life.

Maintaining Compliance: Label Inspection, Updates & Recordkeeping

Once your GHS safety labels are in place, keeping them accurate and legible is an ongoing responsibility. Labels can fade, peel, or become outdated as containers move through different work areas or are exposed to harsh conditions. At the same time, Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) evolve with new hazard information, making periodic reviews and updates essential. A structured compliance program—combining regular inspections, prompt label revisions, and thorough documentation—ensures that every container in your facility continues to meet OSHA HCS 29 CFR 1910.1200 and GHS requirements.

Label Inspection Schedules and Checklists

Establish a routine inspection schedule to catch worn or incorrect labels before they become a safety risk. Many organizations find a quarterly review effective, though high-use areas (chemical mixing stations, loading docks) may need monthly checks. Inspections should cover:

Legibility: text and pictograms remain crisp and free of smudges.
Physical condition: no peeling edges, cracks, or tears in the label substrate.
Adhesion: label is firmly affixed and won’t lift when touched.
Accuracy: signal words, hazard statements, and supplier information match the current SDS.

Sample checklist item:

“Verify that all acetone containers in Bay 3 still display the flame pictogram, ‘Danger’ signal word, and up-to-date supplier phone number.”

Use a simple form—digital or paper—where inspectors date their review, note any deficiencies, and list corrective actions (replace, reprint, or remove obsolete labels). This record becomes part of your compliance audit trail and highlights areas that consistently require extra attention.

Updating Labels When SDS Information Changes

An SDS revision can trigger multiple label updates. Common triggers include:

New hazard classifications (for example, a health hazard is upgraded from Category 3 to Category 2).
Addition or deletion of hazard or precautionary statements.
Supplier contact information changes (address, emergency phone).

When an updated SDS arrives, compare the new hazard statements, pictograms, and signal words against your existing label content. If discrepancies appear, prepare replacement labels immediately—even if old labels remain on noncritical stock until used up. Keep a label revision log that tracks:

SDS version date and revision number.
Date labels were updated.
Who authorized the change.
Departments or storage areas affected.

Prompt label updates minimize the risk of outdated hazard information circulating in your facility and ensure that emergency responders always see the most current data.

Recordkeeping and Audit Trail Best Practices

Thorough documentation is critical for internal reviews and demonstrating compliance during OSHA inspections. Your recordkeeping system should capture:

Inspection records: dates, inspectors’ names, checklist results, and corrective actions.
Label revision logs: SDS versions, label version identifiers (e.g., v1.0, v1.1), and authorization signatures.
Print records: batch numbers, quantities printed, and material types (paper, polyester, vinyl).
Disposal certificates: confirmation that obsolete or damaged labels were removed and shredded or recycled.

Store these records in a central location or electronic database for easy retrieval. A searchable spreadsheet or document management system helps you pull up audit-ready reports—such as “All hazard labels updated since SDS v2.3 on April 1, 2025”—in seconds. By maintaining a clear audit trail, you not only reduce administrative stress but also demonstrate to regulators that your workplace prioritizes accurate hazard communication as a core safety practice.

Additional Resources for GHS Labeling Compliance

Keeping pace with evolving regulations and best practices in GHS safety labeling can feel like a moving target. The following curated resources—including official documents, practical tools, and downloadable templates—will help you stay audit-ready and streamline your labeling process.

Official Regulatory Documents

• OSHA HCS 29 CFR 1910.1200
The foundational U.S. rule for hazard communication, integrating GHS criteria into classification, labeling, and SDS requirements.
Link: 29 CFR 1910.1200

• UNECE GHS – Rev. 9 “Purple Book”
The United Nations’ authoritative guide defining global classification criteria, hazard categories, and label elements. Download the full PDF or browse individual parts for detailed cutoffs on flammability, toxicity, and environmental hazards.
Link: UNECE GHS Rev. 9 Classification Criteria

GHS Labeling Tools and Checklists

• SDS-to-Label Conversion Checklist
A step-by-step worksheet to extract product identifiers, hazard statements, pictograms, and P-codes directly from your SDS—ensuring no element is overlooked.
Link: GHS Labeling Compliance Checklist

• Hazard Pictogram Reference Sheet
High-resolution artwork and official color values for all nine GHS symbols. Print this sheet for poster-style layout checks before committing to your final design.
Link: GHS Hazard Pictograms (Wikipedia)

• OSHA Hazard Communication QuickCard
A concise poster summarizing label elements, signal words, and key definitions—ideal for toolbox talks or safety training rooms.
Link: Hazard Communication Standard: Labels and Pictograms (PDF)

Sample Templates and Software Links

• OSHA Free GHS Label Template
Download an editable PDF template that meets OSHA’s layout requirements for container labels.
Link: OSHA Sample GHS Label Template (PDF)

• Safety Decals Sticker Builder
An online tool to customize label size, material, and all GHS fields. Preview your design in real time and order print-ready sheets.
Link: Sticker Builder

• Brady Workstation GHS Label Software
Feature-rich desktop application with built-in GHS templates, database linking, and multi-user management for large facilities.
Link: Brady Workstation GHS Labels

• BarTender Label Design & Printing Software
Industry-standard label software offering a free trial, dynamic database connections, and compliance-driven template libraries.
Link: Seagull BarTender

By bookmarking these documents, leveraging checklists, and integrating proven templates or software tools, you’ll fortify your GHS labeling program—minimizing errors, accelerating audits, and keeping everyone who handles hazardous chemicals safe and informed.

Ensuring GHS Label Compliance in Your Workplace

Maintaining GHS label compliance is an ongoing commitment, not a one-time task. To keep every container in your facility fully compliant—and your team safe—focus on these core steps:

Understand the requirements: Stay up to date with OSHA HCS 29 CFR 1910.1200 and UN GHS Revision 9. Regularly review any changes to signal words, hazard statements, or pictogram criteria.
Assemble proper label elements: Always match your product identifiers to the SDS, use the correct pictograms, include the right signal words, and list complete precautionary statements.
Choose durable materials: Select substrates and adhesives that resist your environment’s worst conditions—chemicals, UV, moisture, abrasion, and temperature extremes.
Procure from reliable suppliers: Partner with vendors who guarantee OSHA- and UN-compliant labels, offer clear customization tools, and back their products with technical support.
Maintain regular audits: Institute quarterly or monthly inspections to catch worn, outdated, or incorrect labels. Track SDS revisions and label updates in a simple log to create an audit-ready record.

By embedding these practices into your safety program, you’ll proactively prevent mislabeling incidents and simplify regulatory inspections. Your employees will know they can trust the hazard information on every container, and safety managers will have peace of mind knowing that labels won’t let them—or the company—down.

When it’s time to upgrade or expand your labeling system, turn to Safety Decals for GHS-compliant, customizable safety labels. Our online Sticker Builder and expert consulting services help you design, print, and apply labels that meet every OSHA and UN specification. Visit Safety Decals to get started—and make sure your hazard communication always stays one step ahead of the regulations.