Enterprise Risk Services | Environmental Health & Safety
HMIS and NFPA Label Information
CHEMICAL CONTAINER LABELING AT OSU
All chemical containers must be clearly labeled with chemical names and hazard
identification. OSU recommends and prefers that the Hazardous Materials
Identification System (HMIS) be used in laboratories. Ratings are found on Safety
Data Sheets (formerly MSDS).
HMIS Rating and Label Information:
* = Chronic Hazard
0 = Minimal Hazard
1 = Slight Hazard
2 = Moderate Hazard
3 = Serious Hazard
4 = Severe Hazard
HMIS HEALTH HAZARD RATING CHART
Chronic (long-term) health effects may result with repeated exposure
No significant risk to health
Irritation or minor reversible injury possible
Temporary or minor injury may occur
Major Injury Likely, unless prompt action is taken and medical treatment is given
Life-threatening, major or permanent damage may result from single or repeated
overexposures
Note: Chemical containers may arrive from the manufacturer with National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) rating and label information. In those cases, the NFPA rating and label is
sufficient. See reverse for NFPA rating information.
Enterprise Risk Services | Environmental Health & Safety
HMIS and NFPA Label Information
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Rating and Label Information:
The NFPA system is often used on chemical containers and is acceptable for use in laboratories at
OSU.
*Simple Asphyxiant is specifically limited to the following gases: nitrogen, helium, neon, argon,
krypton, and xenon.
+
These and other symbols are not official NFPA symbols but are occasionally used. OX, SA, and W
are the only official NFPA symbols. The Rating Number describes all other chemical properties (e.g.,
corrosive, acidic, alkaline, etc.)