Labelling Multiple Hazards
When a material possesses more than one hazard, each hazard must be appropriately labeled to ensure that individuals handling or using the material are informed about all pótential risks.
Purposes of Labelling Hazards
- Safety Awareness. Labels communicate hazards clearly, ensuring that anyone interacting with the material understands the specific dangers associated with it.
- Risk Mitigation. Knowing all hazards allows users to take appropriate precautions to minimize risks, such as wearing protective gear or handling the material in a specific manner.
- Compliance. Many regulatory bodies and standards (like OSHA in the US or REACH in the EU) mandate accurate labeling of hazardous materials to ensure legal compliance and safety standards.
For example, a chemical substance that is both toxic and flammable should have labels indicating both toxicity and flammability.
This dual-labeling ensures that anyone handling the substance is fully aware of the multiple hazards it poses, thereby promoting safer handling practices and reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries.