When handling chemicals in a workplace, labels protect people. Two label systems are often mixed up: GHS labels and transport labels. Both are important, yet they apply in different settings and follow different rules.
This guide explains each label type, why they matter, and how to tell them apart with ease.
What Are GHS Labels?
GHS labels come from the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), developed by the United Nations. In the UK, GHS is implemented through GB CLP rules led by HSE.
- Purpose: protection of workers through clear hazard information in the workplace.
- Where used: On primary containers (from the manufacturer) and on secondary containers (like spray bottles or smaller jars) once chemicals are transferred.
- What they include:
- Product identifier matching the SDS
- Supplier details: name, address, telephone
- One signal word: “Danger” or “Warning”
- Hazard statements and precautionary statements
- Hazard pictograms in red diamonds on a white background
- Any required supplemental information
GHS labels are workplace‑focused. They describe how a chemical may affect health and safety at the point of use.
What Are Transport Labels?
Transport labels warn during shipping and handling. In the UK, requirements are based on the UN Model Regulations and applied through: Security requirements for moving dangerous goods for land, MGN 340 for sea, and ICAO Technical Instructions for air. Guidance is issued by the Department for Transport, with enforcement by DVSA.
- Purpose: safety during carriage and storage in transit, and quick recognition by handlers and responders.
- Where used: on shipping boxes, drums, IBCs, freight containers and vehicles.
- What they include:
- Diamond‑shaped hazard labels with a class number
- UN number marking (for example “UN 1203”) and the proper shipping name in documentation
- For vehicles and tanks, placards and orange plates as required by ADR
Transport labels are travel-focused since they warn anyone handling the shipment about hazards during movement, storage, or accidents.
GHS Labels vs Transport Labels: Key Differences
| Feature | GHS Labels (workplace) | Transport Labels (in transit) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Worker safety and hazard communication in the workplace | Carriage safety and emergency awareness during shipping |
| Regulated by | EPA Notices under the HSNO Act and HSW framework, using GHS 7 | Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005 and NZS 5433; IMDG for sea; ICAO for air |
| Where used | Supplier and decanted containers in facilities | Packages, IBCs, freight units and vehicles |
| How it looks | Red‑diamond pictograms, signal word, H and P statements, supplier details | Class labels with class numbers, UN numbers, proper shipping name, and placards where required |
| Primary focus | Health and safety for users handling the substance | Safe carriage and rapid identification by handlers and responders |
Why It’s Important to Know the Difference
Confusion leads to gaps and risk.
- A drum used on site requires a CLP‑compliant hazard label so staff can see the hazards and controls.
- A drum in carriage requires ADR class label(s) and a UN number so carriers and responders can act fast in an incident.
Each system protects a different point in the chemical’s journey.
Making Labelling Easy
Manually creating labels can be confusing. Online tools can help you quickly create GHS-compliant secondary container labels, complete with pictograms, signal words, and even QR codes that link directly to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
For transport labeling, always refer to DfT or UN requirements to ensure shipments meet legal standards.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to ghs labels vs transport labels, the difference comes down to where the chemical is and who needs the information.
- GHS labels: For employees handling chemicals in the workplace.
- Transport labels: For anyone shipping, moving, or responding to an accident with hazardous materials.
By understanding and applying both correctly, companies can keep workers safe, meet regulations, and prevent accidents both inside the facility and on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are both a GHS label and a transport label required?
A: Yes. GB CLP labels are required in the workplace. ADR/RID/IMDG/ICAO labels and marks are required during carriage. The systems are not interchangeable.
Q: Can a transport label replace a GHS label once the product arrives?
A: No. After receipt and during use on site, the container requires a GB CLP‑compliant workplace label.
Q: Where is the right information for each label found?
A: In the SDS. Section 2 lists CLP label elements. Section 14 lists transport details such as UN number, proper shipping name, class and packing group.
Q: What is the difference between a UN number and a CAS number?
A: A UN number identifies the dangerous good for transport. A CAS number identifies the chemical substance in inventories and technical references.
Q: Are the symbols the same on both labels?
A: No. CLP pictograms are red diamonds for user hazards. Transport class labels are diamond‑shaped signs with class numbers and standard colours. Vehicles use placards and orange plates where required.