| |
Do RTK Labels Need to List Target Organs?
RTK Labeling Home Page
According
to OSHA's HCS 1910.1200, an RTK label must contain the chemical
name, appropriate hazard warning information, and the name and address
of the manufacturer. It is OSHA's position that the hazard warning
information needs to identify the organs effected by exposure to
the chemical (see OSHA
Standards Interpretation and Compliance Letters 02/09/1994 - Labeling
Provisions).
You can use
both pictograms and text on the label to identify the effects
on specific organs. Your Material Safety Data Sheet, however, should
contain more comprehensive information.
OSHA has categorized
target organ effects that may occur, including examples of signs
and symptoms, into the following groups. The list is not intended
to be all-inclusive, but rather an illustration of the scope of
effects and hazards that employers must consider when evaluating
chemicals in the workplace.
| |
a. |
Hepatotoxins:
Chemicals which produce liver damage
Signs & Symptoms: Jaundice; liver enlargement
Chemicals: Carbon tetrachloride; nitrosamines
|
|
b. |
Nephrotoxins:
Chemicals which produce kidney damage
Signs & Symptoms: Edema; proteinuria
Chemicals: Halogenated hydrocarbons; uranium
|
|
c. |
Neurotoxins:
Chemicals which produce their primary toxic effects on the
nervous system
Signs & Symptoms: Narcosis; behavioral changes; decrease
in motor functions
Chemicals: Mercury; carbon disulfide
|
|
d. |
Agents
which act on the blood or hemato-poietic system: Chemicals
which decrease hemoglobin function or deprive the body tissues
of oxygen
Signs & Symptoms: Cyanosis; loss of consciousness
Chemicals: Carbon monoxide; cyanides
|
|
e. |
Agents
which damage the lung: Chemicals which irritate or damage
pulmonary tissue
Signs & Symptoms: Cough; tightness in chest; shortness
of breath
Chemicals: Silica; asbestos
|
|
f. |
Reproductive
toxins: Chemicals which affect the reproductive capabilities
including chromosomal damage (mutations) and effects on fetuses
(teratogenesis)
Signs & Symptoms: Birth defects; sterility
Chemicals: Lead; DBCP
|
|
g. |
Cutaneous
hazards: Chemicals which affect the dermal layer of the body
Signs & Symptoms: Defatting of the skin; rashes; irritation
Chemicals: Ketones; chlorinated compounds
|
|
h. |
Eye
hazards: Chemicals which affect the eye or visual capacity
Signs & Symptoms: Conjunctivitis; corneal damage
Chemicals: Organic solvents; acids |
Related
links
Download
MSDS Forms
OSHA
Standards Interpretation and Compliance Letters 02/09/1994
Labeling provisions (for target organs)
Free Guide to the NFPA Diamond
This guide
is intended for general information purposes only. This guide
is not a substitute for review of applicable government regulations
and standards. |
|
