Chemical labels are key to keeping a lab organized, efficient, and safe. Proper labeling practices can help avoid time-consuming mistakes, improve lab workflows, and even protect everyone involved from potential hazards.
Here are nine practical tips to help ensure that your lab’s chemical labels work effectively, boost efficiency, and stay compliant with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HAZCOM).
1. Use Pre-Printed Labels to Minimize Human Error
Handwriting on labels may seem quick, but it’s prone to mistakes. A handwritten “NaOH” could be misread, or letters might smudge if touched too soon. Pre-printed chemical labels eliminate this issue by clearly showing the correct name, concentration, and hazard symbols. Many pre-printed label options are available for common chemicals, helping reduce potential errors and enhancing lab safety.
2. Choose the Right Size Label for Small Vials and Containers
Tiny vials are common in labs, but fitting a label on them can be tricky. Regular-sized labels are too large, while smaller ones might not be readable. Look for labels specifically designed for small vials and containers, which can provide the necessary information without wrapping around too many times or peeling off. A perfectly-sized sticker or label can make identifying chemicals in small vials quick and easy.
3. Invest in Labels Made for Frozen Surfaces
Labeling frozen containers can be a major challenge. Standard labels don’t adhere well to cold surfaces, so look for labels designed specifically for frozen or low-temperature environments. These specialty labels will stay put without needing to thaw the container first, allowing you to continue labeling and sorting frozen items efficiently without slowing down your workflow.
Learn how to ensure your products remain organized and identifiable throughout the entire cold chain journey.
4. Color Code Labels for Easy Identification
Using a color-coding system can save time and boost efficiency by making it easy to recognize certain chemicals at a glance. Color-coded labels help the brain process information faster. For example, you could assign blue labels to water-based chemicals and red labels to acids. This system enhances safety by reducing confusion and making it simple to identify chemicals from across the room.
5. Implement Barcode Labels for Quick Scanning
Adding barcodes to your labels may feel like a high-tech solution, but it’s a fantastic time-saver. Instead of manually reading each chemical’s name and concentration, lab personnel can scan a barcode, instantly pulling up all relevant information. Not using barcodes can lead to inefficiencies, especially in larger labs where chemicals are frequently transferred or checked in and out. Barcode labels are simple to set up, and they work seamlessly with most inventory systems.
6. Ensure Labels Meet HAZCOM Standards
OSHA’s HAZCOM labeling requirements are in place to protect workers and ensure proper handling of hazardous materials. To meet these standards, your labels must clearly identify the chemical, display hazard warnings, and provide handling instructions. A proper HAZCOM label should include pictograms, signal words, and a warning label to keep everyone informed about potential hazards. Using compliant labels protects workers and makes sure your lab is up to safety standards.
7. Use Labels with Clear Warning Symbols
Whether it’s a highly corrosive acid or a combustible liquid, every chemical label should have a clear warning label to alert lab personnel of potential dangers. These symbols are a universal language for safety, instantly alerting everyone to handle the substance with caution. In some cases, choosing a label with a more noticeable symbol size or color can make your safety warning stand out even more.
8. Regularly Check Labels for Wear and Tear
Wear and tear on labels can make them unreadable, especially if the labels are exposed to heat, chemicals, or other harsh conditions. Make it a routine practice to check labels on a regular basis and replace any that are starting to fade or peel. Keeping labels in top condition ensures that critical information is always visible and reduces the risk of misidentifying chemicals in worn containers.
9. Find a Reliable Partner for Custom Labeling Solutions
When your lab has unique needs, such as custom labels for specialized chemicals or multi-part labeling systems, finding a labeling partner can make all the difference. A labeling partner, like Electronic Imaging Materials (EIM), can help create custom labels designed specifically for your lab’s environment, equipment, and workflow. Custom chemical labels streamline processes, reduce errors, and help you stay compliant with labeling standards.
At Electronic Imaging Materials, we offer a comprehensive range of labeling solutions designed to meet the unique demands of the medical and laboratory fields, including temperature-resistance cryogenic labels. Our capabilities extend beyond standard labeling, providing customized solutions that cater to your specific needs. We put in the work to meet government regulations for labeling. Additionally, we work closely with clients, including regulatory-driven partners like Hologic, to ensure labels meet strict internal standards.
Learn more about our partnership with Hologic.
The Bottom Line: Maximizing Your Lab’s Efficiency with the Right Labels
Proper chemical labeling goes beyond simple organization—it’s a key factor in maintaining a safe, efficient lab environment. By implementing the above strategies, you can reduce human error, speed up identification, and help ensure lab staff handles all chemicals safely.
From custom labeling options to durable designs, Electronic Imaging Materials offers a range of high-quality chemical labeling solutions that keep labs organized and compliant with HAZCOM standards. We also provide solutions for advanced applications such as barcoding, color-coding, and full-color graphics, ensuring that your labels are not only functional but also visually distinctive.
Maximize Lab Efficiency with EIM’s Chemical Labels
Equip your lab with high-quality chemical labels that make organizing, warning, and compliance easy. Request a sample from Electronic Imaging Materials today to see how our customizable solutions enhance lab efficiency and safety.
