SOP for Labeling and Signage of Hazardous Materials

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SOP for Labeling and Signage of Hazardous Materials

Standard Operating Procedure for Labeling and Signage of Hazardous Materials

1) Purpose

The purpose of this SOP is to ensure that all hazardous materials within the facility are appropriately labeled and signposted. Proper labeling and signage help identify hazards, prevent mishandling, and comply with safety regulations.

2) Scope

This SOP applies to all hazardous materials received, stored, used, and transported within the facility. It includes requirements for primary and secondary container labeling as well as area signage for hazardous zones.

3) Responsibilities

  • Operators: Ensure proper labeling of all containers used during operations.
  • Quality Assurance (QA): Verify that all hazardous materials are labeled and signposted appropriately.
  • Safety Officers: Oversee compliance with labeling standards and signage requirements.
  • Inventory Managers: Maintain updated records of labeled materials and their corresponding SDS.

4) Procedure

4.1 Labeling of Hazardous Materials

Proper labeling is essential to ensure hazardous materials are identified correctly during handling, storage, and transport. Follow the steps below:

  1. Primary Container Labeling:
    1. Verify that each primary container provided by the supplier includes:
      • Material name and trade name
      • Hazard classification (e.g., flammable, toxic, corrosive)
      • Signal words: “Danger” or “Warning”
      • GHS (Globally Harmonized System) pictograms
      • Supplier name and contact information
      • Precautionary and hazard statements
    2. If any label is illegible, damaged, or missing:
      • Isolate the container in a designated area.
      • Notify
the supervisor and relabel the container using approved labeling guidelines.

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  • Secondary Container Labeling:
    1. When transferring hazardous materials to secondary containers, label the new container immediately.
    2. The label must include the following details:
      • Material name
      • Hazard classification
      • GHS pictogram(s)
      • Signal word (e.g., “Warning” or “Danger”)
      • Date of transfer
      • Initials of the person handling the transfer
    3. Do not use generic or incomplete labels (e.g., “Chemical X”).
  • Temporary Labels:
    1. For short-term use (less than 24 hours), temporary labels must include at least:
      • Material name
      • Hazard classification
    2. All temporary labels must be removed or replaced with permanent labels when work is complete.
  • Inspection and Maintenance of Labels:
    1. Inspect all containers weekly to ensure labels are legible and intact.
    2. Replace labels immediately if they are faded, damaged, or missing.

    • 4.2 Signage for Hazardous Areas

    Signage must be displayed in all areas where hazardous materials are stored, used, or transported. Follow these guidelines for proper signage:

    1. Placement of Signs:
      1. Place clear and visible signs at the entrances to hazardous material storage areas, laboratories, and other high-risk zones.
      2. Position signage at eye level and avoid obstructions.

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    2. Types of Signs:
      1. Use appropriate GHS pictograms for hazard classifications, such as:
        • Flame (flammables)
        • Skull and crossbones (toxic materials)
        • Corrosion (corrosive substances)
        • Exclamation mark (irritants, sensitizers)
      2. Warning or caution signs must include:
        • “DANGER” for severe hazards
        • “CAUTION” for moderate hazards
        • “NOTICE” for informational purposes
    3. Color Coding:
      • Red: Flammable materials
      • Yellow: Reactive and explosive materials
      • Blue: Health hazards
      • Green: Safety equipment and first aid
    4. Inspection and Maintenance of Signs:
      1. Conduct weekly checks to ensure all hazard signs are visible, intact, and accurate.
      2. Replace faded, damaged, or outdated signage immediately.

    4.3 Training and Monitoring

    1. Employee Training:
      1. Train all employees on the importance of labeling and signage for hazardous materials.
      2. Include the following in training programs:
        • How to interpret GHS pictograms
        • Proper labeling of primary and secondary containers
        • Signage placement and meaning
        • Reporting damaged or missing labels/signs

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    2. Monitoring Compliance:
      1. QA and safety officers must conduct monthly audits of labels and signage.
      2. Document and address any non-compliance during inspections.

    5) Abbreviations, if any

    • GHS: Globally Harmonized System
    • PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
    • SDS: Safety Data Sheet
    • QA: Quality Assurance

    6) Documents, if any

    • Hazardous Material Labeling Inspection Log
    • Signage Inspection Checklist
    • Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

    7) Reference, if any

    • OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200)
    • Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling
    • ISO 3864-2: Safety Signs and Symbols

    8) SOP Version

    Version: 1.0

    Annexure

    Template 1: Hazardous Material Labeling Inspection Log

     
     
     Date Material Name Container Type Label Condition Inspected By 
     
     DD/MM/YYYY Chemical Name Primary/Secondary Good/Damaged/Missing Inspector Name

    Template 2: Signage Inspection Checklist

     
     
     Date Location Sign Type Condition Inspected By 
     
     DD/MM/YYYY Hazardous Storage Area Flammable/Corrosive/Toxic Good/Damaged/Missing Inspector Name
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