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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.

  1. Hepatotoxins: Chemicals which produce liver damage
    Signs & Symptoms: Jaundice; liver enlargement Chemicals: Carbon tetrachloride; nitrosamines
  2. Nephrotoxins: Chemicals which produce kidney damage Signs & Symptoms: Edema; proteinuria Chemicals: Halogenated hydrocarbons; uranium
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. Agents which damage the lung: Chemicals which irritate or damage pulmonary tissue Signs & Symptoms: Cough; tightness in chest; shortness of breath Chemicals: Silica; asbestos
  6. 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
  7. Cutaneous hazards: Chemicals which affect the dermal layer of the body Signs & Symptoms: Defatting of the skin; rashes; irritation Chemicals: Ketones; chlorinated compounds
  8. Eye hazards: Chemicals which affect the eye or visual capacity Signs & Symptoms: Conjunctivitis; corneal damage Chemicals: Organic solvents; acids

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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