Types of Containers and Labels
Container labeling is a highly effective method to communicate the physical and health hazards of chemicals used in the workplace.
All labels are required to have pictograms, a signal word, hazard and precautionary statements, the product identifier, and supplier identification.
We'll look at the labeling requirements for each of the four types of containers listed below:
- Shipped (Primary) Containers: These are containers that manufacturers or distributors send out. They must have a complete OSHA-compliant label, including product identifier, signal word, hazard statements, pictograms, precautionary statements, and the supplier’s contact information.
- Workplace (Secondary) Containers: These are containers that employers label themselves after transferring a chemical from a primary container. These labels must identify the chemical and show the hazards in a clear, consistent format. Employers can use full OSHA labels or simplified versions, as long as the information is accurate and accessible.
- Stationary Containers: These are large, non-mobile containers like tanks or storage bins. Employers can use signs, placards, or other labeling methods as long as the information is visible and matches the safety data sheet (SDS).
- Portable Containers: These are temporary containers used by a single employee who uses the chemical immediately. If the chemical is not left unattended, a label is not required. However, if the container is used beyond one shift or shared, it must be labeled.
Revising Labels
Chemical manufacturers, importers, distributors, or employers who become newly aware of any significant information regarding the hazards of a chemical must revise the labels for the chemical within six months of becoming aware of the new information.
To learn more about the four types of container labels and associated requirements, visit OSHA's website and download OSHA Publication 3636, Hazard Communication Standard: Labels and Pictograms.
The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) 29 CFR 1910.1200 requires employers to ensure that all hazardous chemicals, including welding cylinders, are properly labeled, documented, and communicated to workers. Below is a breakdown of what that means for welding gas cylinders:
1. Labeling
- Manufacturer Information: Name, address, and telephone number must be listed.
- Product Identifier: Chemical or trade name of the gas inside (e.g., Acetylene, Argon).
- Signal Word: “Danger” or “Warning” to indicate severity of the hazard.
- Hazard Statements: Standardized phrases describing the nature of the hazard (e.g., “Extremely flammable gas”).
- Pictograms: GHS-compliant symbols (e.g., flame, gas cylinder, oxidizer).
- Precautionary Statements: Safe handling, storage, and emergency response measures.
2. Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
- Readily accessible: Workers must have immediate access to SDSs for each welding gas.
- Standard 16-section format: Includes chemical properties, hazards, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.
3. Employee Training
- Before exposure: Workers must be trained on hazards of gases they will work with.
- Understanding labels & SDS: Must know how to interpret label elements and use SDS information.
- Protective measures: Training should cover PPE, ventilation, handling, and storage practices.
4. Updating and Maintaining Labels
- No removal or defacing: Labels must not be altered or made unreadable.
- Damaged labels: Cylinders with missing or unreadable labels must be taken out of service until relabeled.
Note: Cylinders are also covered by the Department of Transportation (DOT) labeling requirements, but OSHA’s HCS focuses on workplace hazard communication—not transportation.
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7-3. What category of containers may not require a label?
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