ABSTRACT
In the past, chemical manufacturers labeled their products with the warnings “Caution,” “Danger,” and “Handle with Care.” The terms were vague and did not indicate specic hazards associated with particular chemicals. The U.S. Department of Transportation labeling system (49 CFR 172) contains requirements for the shipping, marking, labeling, and placarding of 1400 hazardous materials. The objectives of this standard are to (1) provide an immediate warning of potential danger; (2) inform emergency responders of the nature of the hazard; (3) state emergency spill or release control procedures; and (4) minimize potential injuries from chemical exposure. The standard contains a hazardous materials table listing substances by name, prescribing requirements for shipping papers, package marking, labeling, and transport vehicle placarding.
