GHS labeling means using the Globally Harmonized System to show chemical hazards in a standard, easy-to-read way. In simple terms: the label is your first safety signal.
It tells you what the product is, how it can hurt you, and what to do to stay safe. That is true whether you’re unloading a drum of hydrogen peroxide, scooping dye powder, or topping up a day tank with finishing chemicals.
GHS labeling and the textile industry
Textile operations use chemicals in many steps, such as pre-treatment and scouring, bleaching, dyeing and printing, and finishing or coating.
For example:
- Scouring agents to clean fabrics before dyeing
- Bleaches to whiten or prepare fibers
- Dyes for rich, lasting colors
- Finishing agents for softness, water repellence, or wrinkle resistance
Every one of these products comes with its own set of hazards. Maybe it’s flammable, maybe it’s corrosive, maybe it’s harmful if you breathe it in. GHS labeling is about making sure these hazards are shown clearly so there’s no guessing, even for someone new on the job.
In the U.S., OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom, 29 CFR 1910.1200) requires that chemical containers have the right labels and that workers are trained to understand them.
The rule lines up mainly with GHS Revision 7 and explains what must appear on labels, how to classify hazards, and how to handle small containers.
A GHS Compliant Label contains six key elements: product identifier, signal word, hazard statements, pictograms, precautionary statements, and supplier name/address/phone.
Why is GHS labeling important for the textile industry?
When you’re working a busy shift, and a coworker hands you an unlabeled bottle from the dye room. Is it a harmless detergent or a strong acid? Without a label, you have no way to know until it’s too late.
Clear and correct labeling can:
- Protects workers: Labels are the fastest way to warn about burns, respiratory irritation, sensitization, fire, or oxidizing reactions. OSHA requires training that explains shipped-container labels and your in-plant labeling system.
- Prevents mishaps: Getting labels right reduces spills, mixing errors, and PPE mistakes, keeping you aligned with regulations.
- Keeps you compliant: OSHA can and will issue fines for missing or incorrect
Textile lines also have many secondary containers (mixing jugs, day tanks, spray bottles, sample vials).
HazCom advises the use of secondary container labels that communicate hazards clearly, even if they’re not as detailed as primary labels, as long as workers understand them and can access their Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
What to do to stay compliant and safe (step-by-step)
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| Image: Chemical labelling and safety process |
1) Map your chemical touchpoints
Walk each process step (receiving, storage, mixing, production, cleaning). List every point where chemicals are opened, transferred, or used and note the container size. This becomes your labeling matrix and training map. OSHA expects workers to understand both shipped-container labels and your workplace labeling system.
2) Pull the current SDS for each product
Labels flow from SDS information. Keep the most recent SDS from the manufacturer and make it easy for workers to access during each shift.
If you’re missing sheets, try SDS lookup to find updated SDSs and the label language that goes with them (helpful when suppliers are slow to respond).
3) Identify the label elements you need
For shipped containers, you need:
- Product identifier
- Signal word (Danger or Warning)
- Pictogram(s)
- Hazard statement(s)
- Precautionary statement(s)
- Supplier name, address, and phone
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| Image: Sample Label for chemical |
Tip: Keep a one-page “label anatomy” poster near receiving and the dye kitchen.
4) Confirm the right hazards (don’t guess)
Use SDS Section 2 to confirm hazard classes and categories. Textile examples:
- Sodium hydroxide (scouring): corrosive → Corrosion pictogram
- Hydrogen peroxide (bleaching): oxidizer (+ sometimes corrosive) → Flame over circle and possibly Corrosion
- Acrylic crosslinkers/catalysts: may sensitize → Health hazard pictogram
Match the label to the SDS, if two suppliers disagree, use the newest SDS and call the manufacturer.
5) Set a simple workplace labeling method
Workplace (secondary) containers like squeeze bottles, totes, day tanks, and sample vials must convey hazards clearly. Make sure that the hazard and signal word are visible and easily readable.
6) Apply the 2024 HazCom updates
- Small containers: use fold-out labels, tags, or tie-ons when space is limited; document your approach for <100 mL and 100–3,000 mL bottles.
- Relabeling rules: if the product was already released for shipment, the final rule clarifies when you must (or need not) relabel your inventory after a supplier update. Build a quick check at receiving.
7) Train and audit
Your written HazCom program must explain how you:
- Verify shipped-container labels on arrival
- Use workplace labels (including small/temporary containers)
- Keep SDSs accessible to every employee
- Update labels and retrain when suppliers change classifications or you change processes
Practical tips that work
Keep it simple and durable. Use chemical-resistant labels that survive steam, splashes, and washdowns. Put pictogram cheat-sheets where people mix batches.
Label before you move. For dye powders and finish concentrates, apply the workplace label before the pail leaves storage. It’s the most common gap we see.
Batch labels show the “worst hazard.” If you mix multiple chemicals, label the container with the most severe hazard present (e.g., “Peroxide/Alkali-Corrosive, Oxidizer”) and the mix date.
Tie labels to job steps. Train by role: color room, dye kitchen, finishing line, maintenance. Use real products and real containers in practice drills.
Conclusion
GHS labels are not “stickers for compliance.” They’re fast instructions that prevent burns, breathing issues, and bad batches. In the textile industry, where chemicals are part of everyday life, labels help keep everyone safe, production running smoothly, and mistakes to a minimum.
By knowing your chemicals, using the latest SDSs, and setting up a simple, consistent labeling system, you’ll make safety second nature in your plant.
FAQ
1) What must be on a chemical label?
The name of the product, a warning word (Danger or Warning), hazard pictures, short hazard sentences, safety tips, and the supplier’s contact details.
2) Do small bottles need full labels?
Not always. If the bottle is too small, you can use tags, fold-out labels, or tie-on cards with key info.
3) Do I have to label every container in the plant?
Yes, unless it’s used only by one person, right away, and never left unattended.
4) What if my supplier changes the label after I get the product?
You usually don’t need to change your current stock, but you must make sure workers get the new safety information.
5) Can I use simple words instead of hazard pictures?
Yes, as long as workers understand the meaning and can check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for more details.
6) Why is this important?
Labels warn you about dangers quickly so you can protect yourself and avoid accidents.
7) Where can I get more safety info?
From the product’s SDS. You can also search online with tools like SDS Manager’s free SDS Search.