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Module 4: Labelling

• Introduction
• Module 1: WHMIS Basics
• Module 2: Key Elements of WHMIS
• Module 3: Classifications

• Module 4: Labelling
• Module 5: MSDS
• Module 6: Hazards
• Module 7: Responsibilities

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What is the purpose of a label?

The purpose of the label is to easily identity the product, its hazards and precautionary measures. All containers of hazardous materials are required to have a label.

There are three types of labels:

1. Supplier labels
2. Workplace labels
3. Laboratory labels

 

Supplier labels

Before a container is shipped, the supplier is required to affix a supplier label to identify the hazardous material.

Seven pieces of information are required if volumes are greater than 100 millilitres:

1. Product Identifier or name of the product
2. Supplier Identifier or the name of the supplier
3. A statement that the MSDS is available
4. Hazard symbols
5. Risk phrases - e.g.: vapour harmful, liquid causes severe burns, etc.
6. Precautionary Measures - e.g.: store away from heat, store in a well ventilated area, wear face protection, etc.
7. First Aid Measures - e.g.: flush eyes with water for 15 minutes, do not induce vomiting, etc.

Example of A "Supplier Label"

The "supplier label" must be shown in English and French and it must have the distinctive hatched border.

Workplace labels

Many times, an employer will purchase products in bulk and decant them to smaller, more manageable containers i.e. bleach. A “workplace label” is required when a controlled product is put into another container, on all hazardous substances produced by employers in the workplace and when a supplier label has been removed or is unreadable.

The employer is responsible for affixing workplace labels to these containers. The label requires three pieces of information:

1. Product identifier or product’s name
2. Safe handling procedures
3. A statement that the MSDS is available.

The label does not require a hatched border, hazard symbols or special wording.

Laboratory labels

A controlled product that is intended for laboratory use only, does not need a supplier label if it meets these conditions:

• Comes from a laboratory supply house
• Weighs less than 10 kilograms

If you work in a laboratory setting, you will get job-specific applications of WHMIS guidelines.

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