REFERENCE: Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemically Preserved Container Products to meet the requirements outlined in 29 CFR 1910.1200.
C&G Containers, Inc. is fully compliant with 29 CFR 1910.1200, the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling for hazardous chemicals in product containers. Under this new standard, C&G Containers incorporates the six essential elements listed below, along with the relevant pictograms, hazard statements, and signal words (“Danger” and “Warning”) to communicate hazard information effectively on product labels and safety data sheets. OSHA has emphasized that container size is not an excuse for omitting GHS labels.
Although the revised HazCom Standard does not specify a minimum size for GHS pictograms or text, the labels must be legible, displayed in English, and prominently placed on the container, clearly visible without the aid of a device (except for corrective lenses).
Important Note: There cannot be a single GHS sticker on the product case box referring to each container’s compliance. Each container must have its own individual label, attached either by a sticker or other labeling method.
The Six Critical Elements on Labels:
- A product identifier (as used on the SDS);
- Supplier Identification;
- A signal word;
- Pictograms;
- Hazard statements;
- Precautionary statements.
Container Information and Pictures of Labels
Vials: All 40 mL or 60 mL vials containing hazardous chemicals will have a polyethylene GHS chemical sticker attached. The sticker will not wrap entirely around the container, allowing the user to see the chemical or sample collected. To meet Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements for shipping chemically preserved containers, the sticker will rise from the bottom of the vial to the middle of the cap. The sampler can easily unscrew the cap at the perforated mark of the sticker to expose the container opening, take the sample, and securely fasten the cap back onto the vial. Once received at the analytical laboratory, the remainder of the label can be removed to avoid interference with auto samplers during testing.
Labeling Information: Includes the preservative name, container description, preparation date, manufacturer’s chemical expiry date (if applicable), bar code/lot number, container number, and field sample spaces.
EPA Method 5035 – Vials
Chemically preserved 40 mL vials in 5035 Terra Core™ foam kits will have a polyethylene “Weight/Field and Bar Code Sticker” attached. A separate paper containing the appropriate GHS information will be wrapped around the weight sticker, held in place by a band. Prior to use, the end user can easily remove the banded GHS paper. Additionally, a second GHS-compliant sticker will be affixed to the outside of the Zip-lock baggie containing the foam holder with the kit vials.
In the future, C&G Containers will combine this dual-labeling into a single label that integrates the GHS requirements, bar code information, and field label spaces, including the initial weight.
Labeling Information: Includes preservative name, container description, preparation date, manufacturer’s chemical expiry date (if applicable), bar code/lot number, container number, initial weight of contents, and field sample spaces.
Other Chemically Preserved Containers
Other hazardous containers, such as plastics, Boston rounds, jars, and packers, will have GHS polyethylene stickers attached to the center of the container.
Labeling Information: Includes preservative name, container description, preparation date, manufacturer’s chemical expiry date (if applicable), bar code/lot number, container number, and field sample spaces.
Case Packaging Stickers
For many containers C&G Containers currently provides, a “Box Tag” is placed on the outside of the carton to describe the contents within. Going forward, C&G Containers will replace the box tag with a GHS-compliant label displaying the appropriate GHS information specific to the hazardous chemicals inside each container.
Important Notes
- Changes to the new GHS labeling apply to hazardous chemicals in all sizes, shapes, and compositions of containers.
- The GHS regulations have redefined Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to be Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
For further information: Safety Data Sheets are available by email or can be requested by calling (800) 396-7123. They can also be accessed on the C&G Containers website at www.cgcontainers.com, where each chemical’s SDS is available.
C&G Containers understands that these changes are significant for all parties involved, but remains committed to complying with both DOT ground/air transportation and OSHA labeling regulations. For any questions or additional information, customers are encouraged to contact C&G Containers’ Quality Department.