Technology Tools Supporting Better Labeling requirements for hazardous materials

Labeling hazardous materials accurately and consistently is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a vital safety practice. Whether you’re dealing with adhesives, solvents, treated wood products, or other chemical-based building materials, proper labeling ensures compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).

Thankfully, technology has evolved to make this process more reliable, streamlined, and integrated. Here’s a look at the top tools helping businesses in the building materials industry improve hazardous material labeling and reduce compliance risks.

• Label Design Software

Modern labeling software enables businesses to create and manage GHS-compliant labels with ease. These tools typically include:

Pre-built templates that meet OSHA and EPA standards

Auto-populated fields for hazard statements, pictograms, and precautionary information

Multilingual label options for global distribution

Examples: BarTender, Loftware NiceLabel, Label Matrix

These platforms reduce the chance of human error and keep formatting consistent across all product lines.

• Integrated ERP and Inventory Systems

Linking your labeling process with your ERP or inventory management system ensures that hazardous material data is always current and accurate. Integration allows:

Real-time updates to chemical compositions and safety data

Automatic label generation as part of inventory and shipping workflows

Centralized control over label versions and compliance documentation

This is especially valuable in dynamic warehouse environments where products are moved, re-packaged, or transferred between locations.

• Digital Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Management Tools

SDS databases are the foundation for compliant labeling. Digital SDS platforms help you:

Store, update, and retrieve SDSs instantly

Automatically extract required labeling elements (e.g., signal words, hazard classes)

Link SDS content directly to your label printing process

Examples: SDSpro, VelocityEHS, Chemwatch

These systems eliminate the need for manual SDS lookups and reduce mislabeling risks due to outdated information.

• Mobile Labeling Applications

On-the-go labeling apps are perfect for field teams, remote warehouses, or mobile units. These tools:

Allow users to scan barcodes or QR codes and print labels instantly

Access cloud-based databases for real-time hazard classification

Support portable printers for labeling directly at the point of use

Mobile labeling solutions are ideal for operations with decentralized workstations or high turnover inventory.

• Cloud-Based Label Management Systems

Cloud platforms make it easier to manage labeling across multiple locations. With cloud-based tools, you can:

Standardize labels for all hazardous materials, no matter the site

Grant access to approved templates and content libraries

Push updates instantly to every facility or department

This eliminates version control issues and helps multi-site operations stay aligned with a single source of truth.

• Labeling Compliance Auditing Tools

Some software platforms offer auditing features that ensure your labels stay compliant. These tools can:

Flag missing or outdated information

Track changes and approval history

Provide audit logs and inspection-ready reports

Being able to quickly show documentation and traceability during an OSHA or EPA inspection is a major advantage.

• Smart Printers and Industrial Labeling Hardware

Today’s industrial label printers aren’t just hardware—they’re smart devices. When paired with software, they can:

Automatically adjust print formats to meet GHS size and symbol requirements

Print on durable, chemical-resistant label stock

Work seamlessly with scanners, mobile devices, and inventory systems

Look for printers with built-in error detection and wireless capabilities for maximum efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Keeping up with hazardous material labeling requirements can be a challenge—but technology makes it easier, more accurate, and more scalable. Whether you’re labeling products on a production line or updating stock in a distribution center, investing in the right tools helps protect your workers, streamline operations, and keep your business fully compliant.

In a fast-moving industry like building materials, the right tech isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.