Do RTK Labels Need to List Target Organs?
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According to OSHA's HCS 1910.1200, an RTK label must contain the chemical name and appropriate hazard warning. It is OSHA's position that an appropriate hazard warning includes information on the type of hazard and the target organs effected by exposure to the chemical OSHA Standards Interpretation and Compliance Letters 02/09/1994 - Labeling Provisions .
You can use both pictograms and text to list target organ effects on your label. Your MSDS should contain more comprehensive information.
OSHA
categorized target organ effects which 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.
- Hepatotoxins:
Chemicals which produce liver damage
Signs & Symptoms: Jaundice; liver enlargement Chemicals: Carbon tetrachloride; nitrosamines
- Nephrotoxins: Chemicals which produce kidney damage Signs & Symptoms: Edema; proteinuria
Chemicals: Halogenated hydrocarbons; uranium
- 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
- 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
- Agents
which damage the lung: Chemicals which irritate or
damage pulmonary tissue
Signs & Symptoms: Cough; tightness in chest; shortness
of breath
Chemicals: Silica; asbestos
- 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
- Cutaneous
hazards: Chemicals which affect the dermal layer of
the body
Signs & Symptoms: Defatting of the skin; rashes;
irritation
Chemicals: Ketones; chlorinated compounds
- Eye hazards: Chemicals which affect the eye or visual capacity Signs & Symptoms: Conjunctivitis; corneal damage Chemicals: Organic solvents; acids
Related
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Introduction to MSDS
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This guide is intended for general information purposes only. This guide is not a substitute for review of applicable government regulations and standards