Introduction

Chemicals have been used since the earliest recorded history in the form of dyes, inks, paints, perfumes, as well as in manufacturing. Containers of chemicals have been identified in various ways throughout recorded history. In general, the form of identification was for the convenience of the person who developed and used the label. Chemical labels are a primary form of hazard communication. The function of a chemical label is to communicate information about chemical hazards and potential risks. A chemical label is the user's primary source of information regarding the product. Chemical labels must meet a variety of regulatory constraints depending on the nature of the labeled product. The chapter also presents some of the key concepts discussed in this book. The book addresses the regulations related to chemical labels and to potential litigation resulting from inadequate labels. It also addresses the many considerations related to the actual words that be placed on the label.