RTK stands for "Right-to-Know". In 1983, OSHA instituted Hazard Communication Standard OSHA CFR 1910.1200 — a rule that gives employees the right to know the hazards of chemicals to which they may be exposed in the workplace. Learn more about RTK labels and how you can obtain a safer work environment.

RTK stands for "Right-to-Know." Employees have the right to know the hazards of chemicals to which they may be exposed in the workplace. RTK labels are the first warning sign as they provide a visual warning of chemical hazards. Two important components of an RTK label is Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and the NFPA Diamond.

MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheets. The MSDS provides specific information about the chemicals and hazards in question. It also provides first aid, personal protective equipment, control measures and emergency responces. All containers that hold all chemicals must be labeled with a MSDS.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) diamond is a system for identifying health and physical hazards associated with specific chemicals. The NFPA Diamond uses color codes to indentify; health risks - BLUE, Flammability - RED, Instability - YELLOW, and Special Hazards - WHITE. Within each color is a number that idenfities the severity of the hazard.

GHS is the Globally Harmonized System. Upon implementation, OSHA's HCS will adopt the label provision of the GHS for harmonized pictograms, hazard statements, and signal words, meaning employers will have to update their current RTK labels by June 1st, 2015.

• 29 CFR 1910.1200 - OSHA Requirements
• RTK Tutorial
• RTK Infocenter
• Drum Labels
• California Prop 65
• Free GHS White Paper
• Understanding MSDS
• Guide To WHMIS
• Creating RTK Labels for Pipe Marking