Appendix I: Labeling of Secondary Containers of Hazardous Chemicals

Revised February, 2021

Labels for secondary containers of hazardous chemicals must at a minimum include the following information:

  • Name of the chemical or chemical product (to match the chemical name on the corresponding SDS).
  • General information regarding the hazards of the chemical. This information can be communicated using words, pictures, symbols, either alone or in combination.

The following is one example of a label, that when properly filled out and affixed to a secondary container, will meet the requirement for labeling requirement for secondary containers. Other labeling schemes can also be used to meet the labeling requirements.

An example of a chemical warning label, with fields in which to note the chemical name and information.

Instructions for Completing the Above Label

  1. Enter the chemical name in the “Chemical Name” field (non-indelible ink (e.g., Sharpie) should be used). The chemical name on the label must match the chemical name on the corresponding SDS.
  2. Indicate the primary hazards of the chemical by marking the open circles for the “toxic”, “flammable”, “reactive”, and “corrosive” fields, as appropriate. The open circles are not intended for entry of numerical hazard ratings such as those used in the NFPA 704 and HMIS systems. The open circles should simply be marked to indicate the applicable primary hazards and not the degree of the hazards.
  3. Enter any additional important information about the chemical in the “Add’l Info” field. Examples of such information include indicating that a chemical is highly flammable, a carcinogen, or capable of reacting to form peroxides.

Additional information regarding the hazards or safe handling procedures of the chemical can be included on secondary container labels. Additional information can include signal words, specific hazard phrases, hazard ratings, and other information. Additional information is recommended when a chemical has extreme hazards and/or more information is needed to effectively communicate to the personnel who will use the chemical. Personnel must be trained on the specific labeling scheme used in their workplace.