Key Concepts

Chemical labelling

What is chemical labelling, and why is it important?

Chemical labelling refers to the practice of create standardized labels to chemical substances and mixtures. These labels provide critical information regarding the identity of the chemical, its hazards, and essential safety instructions. Proper labelling is vital for ensuring the safe handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of chemicals, thus reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and environmental damage. For Regulatory Affairs professionals, accurate labelling is also a key compliance requirement under various country-specific chemical regulations.

What are the key elements that must be included on a chemical label?

A compliant chemical label must include several essential elements, including:

 

  • Product Identifier: The chemical name or product name that accurately identifies the substance or mixture.
  • Signal Word: A word used to indicate the relative level of hazard severity, such as "Danger" for more severe hazards or "Warning" for less severe ones.
  • Hazard Statements: Standardized phrases describing the nature and degree of the chemical hazards, such as "Causes skin irritation" or "Toxic if inhaled."
  • Precautionary Statements: Instructions on how to minimize or prevent adverse effects from exposure, handling, or storage, like "Wear protective gloves" or "Keep away from heat."
  • Supplier Information: Contact details of the manufacturer or supplier, including name, address, and phone number.
  • Pictograms: Graphical symbols that visually convey hazard information, such as the flame for flammability or the skull and crossbones for toxicity.

What challenges do Regulatory Affairs professionals face with chemical labelling?

Regulatory Affairs professionals often encounter several challenges with chemical labelling, including:

 

  • Global Compliance: Navigating the complexities of different countries’ adoption of GHS and ensuring labels meet the specific requirements of each region.
  • Hazard Classification: Correctly classifying chemicals according to the diferent country-specific regulations, which requires thorough understanding of chemical properties and hazards.
  • Label Updates: Keeping labels up-to-date with the latest regulatory changes, which can require frequent revisions and coordination across multiple teams.
  • Language and Communication: Ensuring that labels are translated accurately and convey hazard information clearly in the local language, which is critical for worker safety and regulatory compliance.

What best practices should be followed to ensure effective chemical labelling?

To ensure effective and compliant chemical labelling, Regulatory Affairs professionals should:

 

  • Stay Informed: Regularly update their knowledge of global chemical regulations and GHS revisions.
  • Conduct Regular Reviews: Periodically review and audit labels to ensure ongoing compliance with current regulations and scientific data.
  • Leverage Technology: Utilize labelling software and systems that automate updates and ensure consistency across all labels.
  • Collaborate with Stakeholders: Work closely with manufacturers, suppliers, and safety professionals to ensure accurate and effective communication of chemical hazards.
  • Prioritize Clarity: Ensure that labels are clear, concise, and free of unnecessary jargon, making them easily understandable by all users.

Become an expert in Chemical labelling.

 

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