Do
RTK Labels Need to
List Target Organs?
According
to OSHA's HCS 1910.1200, an RTK label must contain the chemical
name, appropriate hazard warning, and the name and address
of the manufacturer. It is OSHA's position that an appropriate
hazard warning includes information on the target 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 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.
| |
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
Introduction to MSDS
OSHA
Standards Interpretation and Compliance Letters 02/09/1994
- Labeling provisions {for target organs}.
Free NFPA Ratings Explanation
Guide
For
more information
Back > Understanding 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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