In 2012, OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) was revised to align with the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals or GHS for short. In turn, this internationally agreed upon standard looks to unify labeling schemes used in different countries around the world. Subsequently the framework laid out within this system aims to enhance the protection of human health and the environment by making all labels easy to read and understand. As a result, KSPprints uses GHS style and modified cylinder labels to comply with the standard yet meet the space available on your cylinder.
How does GHS affect my cylinder label?
A combination of signal words, GHS symbols and contact information make GHS style cylinder labels best practice in gas safety. As a result, hazards are easy to identify and understand.
GHS style cylinder labels use signal words to help those using the gas to find important information like hazard, prevention, first aid and storage. Further their bold type allows for quick identification.
Two GHS symbols alert persons of common hazards. For instance flame symbol for flammable gases. Likewise the oxidizing symbol is used for those that will cause fires to spread or burn more quickly. However those gases that are less reactive, non-flammable may use a gas under pressure symbol for the first symbol. In addition this first symbol includes a background color based on the hazard.
Flammable – red
Oxidizing – yellow
Non-Flammable – green
Gas cylinders are under pressure. As a result the second GHS symbol on the label is the GHS Pressurized gas symbol.
The guideline requires the company name and contact information of the company that is responsible for the gas cylinder. Typically this would be the company who has bottled the gas.
KSP Prints Cylinder Labels
We offer two styles of shoulder labels, GHS and modified. That is to say the GHS style, per the GHS guideline includes two large diamond GHS symbols in center of label. However the modified version was created for customers who didn’t have space for two large diamonds. On the other hand the latter uses a smaller second symbol located on the right side of the label. Certainly signal words and contact information are included with both styles.
All KSPprints cylinder labels are printed on outdoor grade vinyl with inks rated for exterior use. Most importantly, a layer of clear polyester lamination protects the label from abrasion. Consequently this ensures that all hazard and safety information is legible despite cylinders bumping into each other in transport, etc.