previous topic
Pressure Units
Glossary Index
Glossary Index
next topic
Prostration
MSDS
Topics
Free Sites FAQ's Regulations Glossary Software Suppliers
Books Forum Poll Fun stuff Quiz Store
Understand your MSDS with the MS-Demystifier Search ALL our MSDS info

Product Identifier

Definition

A Product Identifier is defined in paragraph C of 29 CFR 1910.1200, the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), as the name or number used for a hazardous chemical on a label or in the SDS. It provides a unique means by which the user can identify the chemical. The product identifier used shall permit cross-references to be made among the list of hazardous chemicals required in the written hazard communication program, the label and the SDS.

bench top gas valve
Safety Emporium has all kinds of lab equipment such as valves and faucets.

Additional Info

The product identifier is one of the six required label elements for shipped containers under the HCS as well as any workplace labels (see 29 CFR 1910.1200 paragraph f(6)). It is also required to appear in Section 1 of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the material. The product identifier on the container, chemical inventory list, and the SDS must match exactly word-for-word.

SDS Relevance

The product identifier can be a trade name, common name, part number, chemical formula or just about anything that the manufacturer desires for the substance or mixture, however, any downstream user must be able to correlate the Safety Data Sheet to the label. Therefore, a product identifier is usually the name of the product as it is marketed and sold by the manufacturer and it should be unique to that particular material. A product identifier is not, for example, simply a synonym for the material or active ingredients. If the part/catalog number is not included in the product identifier, the manufacturer can optionally add that information to the label and/or SDS so long as this does not interfere with the understanding/presentation of the required elements.

Further Reading

  • A 2015 OSHA interpretation letter titled Correct use of product identifiers on safety data sheets and labels.
  • An OSHA brief titled Hazard Communication Standard: Labels and Pictograms.
  • See also: CAS Number, chemical formula, EINECS number, NSN, UN/NA Number.

    Additional definitions from Google and Onelook.



    Entry last updated: Saturday, January 7, 2023. This page is copyright 2000-2024 by ILPI. Unauthorized duplication or posting on other web sites is expressly prohibited. Send suggestions, comments, and new entry desires (include the URL if applicable) to us by email.

    Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.