6. Labeling Requirements

Every container in a school science storage area needs a clear, complete label — including containers a teacher fills themselves for a specific lab activity.

Minimum label elements:

• Product identifier (matching the SDS)

• Signal word (Danger or Warning, per GHS classification)

• Hazard statement(s)

• Pictogram(s), where applicable

• Precautionary statements

• Supplier/manufacturer information (original containers)

Common school labeling mistakes:

• Hand-written labels that fade or smear (use permanent, chemical-resistant labels)

• Secondary containers left unlabeled after the original bottle is returned to storage

• Labels removed or defaced when a container is cleaned for reuse

• Student-prepared solutions left unlabeled during multi-day lab activities

Internal link opportunity: “GHS classification” → Understanding GHS Labels and Pictograms for Science Teachers.