Exploring the EPA’s Label Review Manual

In May, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released their new Label Review Manual, which, according to the agency, was released with the goal of improving the “quality and consistency” of labels. 

Product labels play an important role in protecting consumers and workers from harmful chemicals and injuries that can result from improper use. For certain products that carry more risk, such as pesticides, using a product in a manner that goes against the label’s instructions is against federal law. 

According to the EPA’s release that accompanied the Label Review Manual, the agency published the manual not to establish new guidance, but to to have all statutory and regulatory provisions combined in a single resource. 

The manual provides manufacturers with chapters on General Label Requirements, Ingredient Statement, Environmental Hazards, Worker Protection Labeling, Directions for Use, and Storage and Disposal.  The section that received the most attention is Worker Protection Labeling, and includes slight alterations in language approved by NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) as well as new chemicals that the EPA believe warranted safety concerns.

As new chemicals are introduced and labeling regulations change, employers and product manufactures must ensure that all hazardous materials are properly labeled. This task can be accomplished more efficiently by investing in flexible in-house printing solutions. 

At DuraFast Label Company, our experts are available to assist you in finding the ideal printer to stay on top of your label printing needs, while still adhering to federal standards. With chemical label standards subject to change, it can be time consuming to wait on a third-party vendor to send you updated materials. However, with equipment such as an Epson GP-C831 printer, you can be in charge of your own prints.