GHS Hazard Labels: What Requirements Apply?
GHS hazard labels mark chemical products consistently and clearly under the CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. This guide explains the mandatory elements, the nine pictograms, the prescribed minimum sizes plus durability and a suitable printing method.
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What must a GHS label contain?
The CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 defines fixed mandatory elements for every hazard label. They ensure that users recognise the hazard immediately and respond correctly.
The core elements include supplier identity, product identifier, the nominal quantity and the hazard-related elements. If one element is missing, the product counts as not properly labelled.
- Name, address and telephone number of the supplier.
- Product identifier (trade name and relevant substances).
- Nominal quantity of the substance or mixture supplied to the public.
- Hazard pictograms, signal word, H-statements and P-statements.
- Supplementary information where applicable (EUH statements).
What do the GHS pictograms look like?
GHS pictograms are diamond-shaped, with a black symbol on a white background and a red border. There are nine pictograms in total covering physical, health and environmental hazards.
Each pictogram must cover at least one fifteenth of the label area and must not be smaller than 1 cm². The diamond edge must not be cut off at the tip or distorted.
What minimum sizes apply to the label?
The CLP Regulation ties the label size to the capacity of the packaging. The larger the container, the larger the label and pictograms must be.
Which printing method and durability are required?
A GHS label must remain legible throughout the entire life of the container. Chemical contact, moisture, UV light and abrasion must not destroy the information - which is why material, colour and printing method are decisive.
For marine and aggressive environments, the standard BS 5609 is the reference: it tests adhesion in salt water plus resistance of the print to abrasion and weathering. Plastic films such as polypropylene or polyester are better suited than paper.
- Face material: PP or PE film for chemical and moisture resistance.
- Colour system: lightfast, smudge-proof pigments instead of water-soluble inks.
- Laser print or thermal transfer with resin ribbon for durable black and red.
- Colour laser or pre-printing for the red diamond border of the pictograms.
- Strong permanent adhesive that also holds on curved cans.
Frequently asked questions
How many GHS pictograms are there?
There are nine GHS pictograms for physical, health and environmental hazards. Only the pictograms that actually apply are shown on a label.
When does the label say Danger and when Warning?
The signal word Danger marks the more severe hazard categories, Warning the less severe. If Danger applies to a substance, Warning is not used in addition.
Does a GHS label have to be chemical-resistant?
Yes, the labelling must stay durably legible. For aggressive or marine conditions, the BS 5609 standard with plastic-based labels and durable print is the recognised reference.
Which printing method suits GHS labels?
Thermal transfer with resin ribbon, colour laser or pre-printing are recommended. The red diamond border must stay colourfast; plain direct thermal printing is unsuitable.
Looking for GHS-compliant labels?
We supply durable hazard labels and matching printing systems to the CLP Regulation - including advice on format and BS 5609.
CLP-compliant
Labels meet the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008.
Chemical-resistant
Materials and print tested to BS 5609.
Right format
Minimum sizes covered for every container size.
Expert advice
Specialists support your choice and marking.