Durable Labels for the Chemical Industry
Chemicals are an essential part of modern industry and are widely used in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, construction and a host of other industries. Many chemicals are produced, stored and transported across the world, mostly via maritime transport, so clear and compliant labelling is essential for safety, regulatory compliance and efficient handling.
Correct chemical labels provide essential information on hazards, handling instructions and legal requirements, helping to prevent accidents and ensuring that any shipment reaches it final destination safely and securely – and by using GHS and BS5609 compliant labels, you can be confident that your labelling meets the standards required for global and maritime transport.
But what do these certifications mean?
GHS Labelling
GHS, or Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, is a globally recognised standard of symbols used on identification labels for the chemicals industry. Basically, it means that anyone finding a container with a GHS label will instantly know if the contents are dangerous as well as any transportation or storage requirements. GHS labelling is vital as it can help to prevent industrial accidents and can even be the difference between life and death.
It’s basically what “goes onto” the label, and it’s vital to ensure that any GHS labels you use are also BS5609 certified.
BS5609 Certified Labels
GHS labels must stand up the rigours of international maritime shipping – a notoriously harsh environment, and this is where BS5609, a British Standard (but one that is internationally recognised), is vital for full regulatory compliance. It means that you can rest assured that your labels can withstand harsh conditions such as immersion in saltwater, exposure to sunlight and extreme changes in temperature.
To qualify for BS5609 certification, any labels, as well as their adhesives must:
Withstand saltwater immersion (90 days in seawater at mid-tide without significant degradation)
Meet minimum adhesive levels (must remain firmly attached to containers across a range of temperatures)
Be resistant to the elements (UV light, temperature changes, saltwater and abrasion)
Have high levels of dimensional stability (must not shrink, curl or peel off)
Further to this, the actual printed information on the labels must also be resistant to saltwater, chemical contact and abrasion – so all in all, they need to be pretty tough!
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Choose Bluepoint for your chemical labels and tags
If you’re after tough, durable tags and labels for the shipment of chemicals that are GHS and BS5609 compliant, partner with Bluepoint Tags and Labels. To find out how we can help you, get in touch today!
T: +44(0)1392 927 030
