What are RTK
Labels?
RTK Labeling Home Page
RTK stands for "Right-to-Know".
In 1983, OSHA
instituted Hazard Communication Standard 1910.1200 -- a rule
that gives employees the right to know the hazards of chemicals
to which they may be exposed in the workplace.
Under this rule,
the hazards of chemicals an employer produces or imports must be
communicated to employees and to downstream employers who may purchase
the chemical. This is done through labels, material safety data
sheets, a written hazard communication program, and hazard safety
training. Employers who do not produce or import chemicals need
only focus on those parts of this rule that deal with establishing
a workplace program and communicating information to their workers.
RTK labels are
probably the most important part of a Hazard Communications (HazCom)
program. They provide an immediate visual warning of chemical hazards.
For this reason, RTK labels must be clearly displayed, written legibly
in English, and must contain at least the following information*:
- Identity
of the hazardous chemical(s).
- Appropriate
hazard warnings.
- Target organ
warning.
- Name and
address of the chemical manufacturer, importer, or other responsible
party.
RTK information
may be displayed in other languages so long as it is presented in
English in addition to any other language. Some states require more
information on RTK labels than is required by OSHA. Check with your
state's OSHA department to find out what you need to do to comply.
*{OHS 1910.1200(f)(1);
OSHA Standards Interpretation 1910.1200 02/09/94}
Related
links
OSHA
HazCom Standard {HCS 1910.1200}
OSHA
Health Hazard Definitions
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. |
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