SECTION 2.2: Label Elements, Including Precautionary Statements
This section provides detailed information on the label elements required under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) and the Classification, Labelling, and Packaging (CLP) Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008.
Subsection 2.2 will contain all of the hazard communication elements that should be included on the label. This information should match - exactly - the information provided on the label and be consistent with the hazard classification provided in subsection 2.1.
For non-classified products, the supplier may still provide some precautionary statements to caution you of the actions which should be taken when using and handling the substance(s).
Some label elements on small packages may be omitted, so the product label may not have all of the label elements given in the SDS.
Required Label Elements
- Pictograms (comprising a black symbol in red square set on point border)
- Signal Word (either danger or warning, not both)
- Hazard Statements (H-statements, given in the CLP Regulation with code starting with H)
- Precautionary Statements (P-statements, given in the CLP Regulation with code starting with P)
- Supplementary hazard information
Hazard Pictograms
The hazard pictograms are designed as red-framed diamonds with black illustrations to indicate which type of hazard they represent.
Toxic / Poison
- Acute toxicity
Oxidiser
- Oxidisers
Corrosive
- Corrosives
Flammable
- Flammables
- Pyrophorics
- Self-heating
- Emits flammable gas
- Organic peroxides
- Self-reactives
Explosive
- Explosives
- Organic peroxides
- Self-reactives
Health Hazard
- Irritant
- Dermal sensitiser
- Acute toxicity
- Narcotic effects
- Respiratory tract irritation
Serious Health Hazard
- Carcinogen
- Reproductive toxicity
- Mutagenicity
- Respiratory sensitiser
- Target organ toxicity
- Aspiration toxicity
Gases Cylinder
- Gases under pressure
Environmental Hazard
- Environmental toxicity
Pictogram Requirements
- Displayed as a black symbol on a white background with a red border
- The size must be proportionate to the label but large enough to ensure visibility
- Pictograms must not be altered or combined with other symbols
There are rules of precedence given in CLP Article 26 that help reduce the number of required pictograms. Nevertheless, up to five pictograms may be necessary on the label, depending on the hazard classification of the substance or mixture.
Some hazard categories, such as relatively insensitive explosives and the less severe environmental hazard categories, do not have an associated pictogram.
Signal Words
The signal word is a crucial element of hazard Communication found in Section 2.2 of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS). It serves as a quick indicator of the relative severity of the hazards associated with a substance or mixture.
Purpose and Assignment
Signal words are designed to:
- Immediately alert the user to potential hazards
- Indicate the relative level of severity of the hazard
- Complement other label elements like pictograms and hazard statements
Key Points
- Only one signal word should appear on the label, even if multiple hazards are present
- If both "Danger" and "Warning" are justified, "Danger" takes precedence
- Some hazard categories do not require a signal word
- The signal word is not related to "Risk Phrases" used in older systems
Hazard Statements
Definition and Purpose
Hazard statements are statutorily defined phrases which are designed to indicate specific hazards. They are legal phrases for each Hazard Category that appear on the label to warn users of the particular hazards.
Examples of Hazard Statements
- "H331: Toxic if inhaled"
- "H302: Harmful if swallowed"
- "H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction"
Note: The codes themselves, e.g. H317, do not have to appear on the SDS or label, but it can be useful to include them, for example in checking translations.
Precautionary Statements (P-Statements)
Categories of Precautionary Statements
- P100 Series: General precautions
- P200 Series: Prevention measures
- P300 Series: Response actions
- P400 Series: Storage instructions
- P500 Series: Disposal instructions
Examples of P-Statements
- P101: If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand
- P210: Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces
- P301 + P310: IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician
- P403: Store in a well-ventilated place
- P501: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations
The accuracy and consistency of this section are critical for regulatory compliance and effective hazard communication. Suppliers are responsible for ensuring that all label elements are up-to-date and supported by evidence from reliable sources.