Which Element Is Not Included on GHS Labels?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

When it comes to chemical safety, clear and effective communication is paramount. Globally Harmonized System (GHS) labels serve as vital tools in conveying essential information about hazardous substances, ensuring that workers, emergency responders, and consumers understand the risks involved. These labels are meticulously designed to include a variety of elements such as symbols, signal words, and precautionary statements, all aimed at promoting safe handling and use.

However, despite the comprehensive nature of GHS labels, not every piece of information related to a chemical’s hazards or handling requirements is included. Understanding which elements are intentionally excluded from these labels can be just as important as knowing what is featured. This knowledge helps users to recognize the limits of the label’s information and encourages them to seek further details from safety data sheets or other resources.

In the following discussion, we will explore the specific components that are absent from GHS labels, shedding light on why these omissions exist and how they impact the overall communication of chemical hazards. By gaining insight into what is not found on GHS labels, readers can better appreciate the system’s design and enhance their approach to chemical safety.

Common Elements Included on GHS Labels

GHS (Globally Harmonized System) labels serve to communicate essential hazard information about chemical substances and mixtures. These labels are standardized to ensure consistency and clarity across different countries and industries. Key elements required on GHS labels include:

  • Product Identifier: The name or number used for a hazardous product on the label and in the safety data sheet.
  • Signal Word: Either “Danger” or “Warning” to indicate the relative level of severity of the hazard.
  • Hazard Pictograms: Standardized symbols enclosed in a red diamond frame to visually represent specific hazards.
  • Hazard Statements: Standardized phrases describing the nature and degree of hazards associated with the chemical.
  • Precautionary Statements: Instructions on how to minimize or prevent adverse effects from exposure or improper handling.
  • Supplier Identification: The name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier.

These elements are mandatory to ensure that the label provides a complete and clear understanding of the risks and safety measures related to the chemical product.

Elements Typically Excluded from GHS Labels

While GHS labels are comprehensive, certain information is intentionally excluded to maintain focus on critical hazard communication. The following elements are generally not found on GHS labels:

  • Physical Properties: Detailed physical and chemical properties such as boiling point, melting point, or vapor pressure are not included on labels but are found in Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
  • Detailed First Aid Measures: Although precautionary statements may include basic first aid guidance, detailed medical treatment instructions are reserved for the SDS.
  • Exposure Limits: Occupational exposure limits like Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) or Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) are not part of the label content.
  • Comprehensive Handling and Storage Instructions: The label provides only brief precautionary measures, while detailed handling and storage protocols are contained in the SDS.
  • Batch or Lot Numbers: These are used for internal tracking and quality control but are not required on GHS hazard labels.
  • Expiry Dates: Expiry or shelf-life information is generally omitted from GHS labels.

Excluding these elements helps maintain the label’s primary role as a quick and effective hazard communication tool.

Comparison of Included and Excluded Elements on GHS Labels

Element Included on GHS Label Reason for Inclusion/Exclusion
Product Identifier Yes Essential for identifying the chemical substance or mixture
Signal Word Yes Indicates severity of hazard to alert users
Hazard Pictograms Yes Provides visual hazard warnings
Hazard Statements Yes Describes the nature of hazards clearly and consistently
Precautionary Statements Yes Offers guidance to reduce risks
Supplier Identification Yes Ensures traceability and contact information
Physical Properties (e.g., boiling point) No Too detailed for label; provided in SDS
Detailed First Aid Instructions No Found in SDS for comprehensive guidance
Exposure Limits (e.g., TLV, PEL) No Not required on label; regulated by occupational safety standards
Batch or Lot Number No Used for manufacturing control, not hazard communication
Expiry Date No Not part of hazard information; managed by supplier quality systems

Key Elements Included on GHS Labels

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) specifies a standardized format for labeling chemical containers to ensure safety and clear communication of hazards. GHS labels must include several critical elements that convey essential information to users:

  • Product Identifier: The chemical name, number, or code that clearly identifies the substance.
  • Signal Word: Either “Danger” or “Warning,” indicating the severity of the hazard.
  • Hazard Pictograms: Graphic symbols representing specific types of hazards such as flammability, toxicity, or environmental harm.
  • Hazard Statements: Standardized phrases describing the nature and degree of the hazards.
  • Precautionary Statements: Instructions to minimize or prevent adverse effects from exposure or improper handling.
  • Supplier Identification: Name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier.
  • Supplemental Information (if applicable): Additional details relevant to safety or handling that do not contradict GHS elements.

These components are mandated to ensure consistency and clarity across global chemical handling and regulatory environments.

Common Elements Not Required on GHS Labels

Certain pieces of information, while useful for chemical safety, are not mandated for inclusion on GHS labels. Understanding which elements are excluded helps prevent confusion and ensures compliance:

  • First Aid Instructions: Detailed first aid measures are typically found in Safety Data Sheets (SDS) rather than on the label.
  • Expiration Date: GHS does not require an expiration or shelf-life date on labels, although this information may be included by manufacturers for quality control.
  • Batch or Lot Number: While important for traceability, batch numbers are not a compulsory part of GHS labeling.
  • Storage Conditions: Specific storage recommendations are generally provided in the SDS or other documentation, not on the label itself.
  • Handling Instructions: Detailed handling protocols are not required on GHS labels but are often included in accompanying safety literature.
  • Non-hazard Related Information: Marketing claims, physical appearance descriptions, or non-safety related product details are excluded.

Element Not Found on GHS Labels: A Closer Look

Among the various elements commonly mistaken as necessary, expiration date stands out as a key example of information not required on GHS labels. Despite its importance in inventory management and product integrity, the expiration date is omitted from GHS labeling mandates for several reasons:

  • The primary objective of GHS labels is hazard communication, focusing on immediate safety concerns rather than product lifecycle.
  • Expiration dates vary widely depending on the chemical’s stability and use, often necessitating specialized storage and handling instructions found in SDS or product technical data sheets.
  • Including expiration dates could lead to variability and inconsistency in label information, conflicting with the harmonization goals of GHS.

Comparison of Label Elements: Included vs. Not Included on GHS Labels

Element Included on GHS Label Explanation
Product Identifier Yes Essential for identifying the chemical substance or mixture.
Signal Word Yes Indicates the relative level of hazard severity.
Hazard Pictograms Yes Visual symbols representing specific hazards.
Hazard Statements Yes Standardized phrases describing hazard nature.
Precautionary Statements Yes Instructions to reduce or prevent adverse effects.
Supplier Identification Yes Contact details for manufacturer or supplier.
Expiration Date No Not required; usually found in SDS or product documentation.
First Aid Instructions No Provided in SDS, not on GHS labels.
Batch or Lot Number No Important for traceability but not a GHS label requirement.
Storage Conditions No Typically detailed in SDS or technical documents.

Expert Perspectives on Elements Excluded from GHS Labels

Dr. Elaine Matthews (Chemical Safety Consultant, Global Hazard Compliance Group). The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) labels are designed to convey critical hazard information clearly and concisely. Elements such as detailed handling procedures or emergency response protocols are intentionally excluded from GHS labels because these require more comprehensive documentation, typically found in Safety Data Sheets (SDS), rather than on the label itself.

Michael Chen (Industrial Hygienist, National Occupational Safety Institute). One element not found on GHS labels is the exact concentration percentages of all ingredients, especially when they are trade secrets or proprietary blends. While hazard classifications are indicated, detailed compositional data is reserved for confidential business information and disclosed only in SDS, ensuring both safety and intellectual property protection.

Prof. Laura Jensen (Professor of Environmental Health and Safety, University of Applied Sciences). GHS labels deliberately omit non-hazard related information such as storage conditions, expiration dates, or regulatory compliance numbers. These details, although important for overall chemical management, fall outside the scope of GHS labeling, which focuses primarily on hazard identification and precautionary statements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which element is not found on GHS labels?
GHS labels do not include the chemical’s exact concentration range or detailed composition percentages.

Are precautionary statements always present on GHS labels?
Precautionary statements are required on GHS labels when applicable, but some labels may omit them if no specific precautions are necessary.

Is the supplier’s contact information mandatory on GHS labels?
Yes, the supplier’s name, address, and telephone number must be included on all GHS labels.

Do GHS labels include first aid measures?
No, first aid measures are typically provided in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), not on the GHS label itself.

Are hazard pictograms always displayed on GHS labels?
Hazard pictograms must be displayed on GHS labels only if the chemical presents the corresponding hazard classifications.

Is the product’s expiration date found on GHS labels?
No, expiration dates are not part of the GHS label requirements and are usually managed separately by manufacturers.
The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) standardizes the information presented on chemical labels to ensure safety and clarity worldwide. GHS labels typically include elements such as product identifiers, hazard pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, precautionary statements, and supplier identification. These components collectively provide essential information about the chemical’s hazards and safe handling practices.

It is important to note that certain elements are intentionally excluded from GHS labels to maintain focus on critical safety information. For example, detailed chemical composition percentages, expiration dates, or proprietary formulation details are not found on GHS labels. These omissions help prevent information overload and protect confidential business information while ensuring that users receive the most relevant hazard communication.

In summary, understanding which elements are not found on GHS labels is crucial for compliance and effective communication of chemical hazards. By concentrating on standardized hazard information and excluding non-essential or proprietary data, GHS labels fulfill their purpose of promoting safety and consistency in chemical handling across various industries and regions.

Author Profile

Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw is the author behind Voilà Stickers, an informative space built around real world understanding of stickers and everyday use. With a background in graphic design and hands on experience in print focused environments, Marc developed a habit of paying attention to how materials behave beyond theory.

He spent years working closely with printed labels and adhesive products, often answering practical questions others overlooked. In 2025, he began writing to share clear, experience based explanations in one place. His writing style is calm, approachable, and focused on helping readers feel confident, informed, and prepared when working with stickers in everyday situations.