Collection: HMIS Hazard Labels
Shop HMIS labels for marking chemical containers in the workplace. Each label carries the four color bars of the Hazardous Materials Identification System: blue for health, red for flammability, yellow for reactivity and white for personal protection. Workers write a 0–4 rating in each colored bar and a PPE code in the white bar, so the hazard and the protection needed can be read at a glance.
How HMIS labels work
HMIS was developed by the paint and coatings industry to give employees hazard information for everyday, non-emergency handling. Each colored bar is rated from 0 (minimal hazard) to 4 (severe hazard). An asterisk next to the health rating flags a chronic health hazard. The white bar records the protective equipment required, usually as a letter code that your hazard communication program defines.
HMIS colors at a glance
- Blue – Health: how harmful the material is to people.
- Red – Flammability: how easily the material ignites and burns.
- Yellow – Reactivity: how unstable the material is. The later HMIS III edition replaces this bar with an orange Physical Hazard bar. Our labels use the yellow Reactivity bar, so confirm the layout your program specifies.
- White – Personal protection: the gloves, goggles, respirator or other PPE to wear.
Choose a size and material
Use the 2" x 2" paper label (500/roll) for small bottles and cans, and the 4" x 4" paper label (500/roll) for drums and larger containers. For surfaces exposed to moisture or wipe-downs, choose the 4" x 4" vinyl label (500/roll). The 8" x 8" vinyl label (100/package) suits tanks, cabinets and storage areas that must be read from a distance.
HMIS labels FAQ
Are HMIS labels the same as NFPA 704 labels?
No. The two look similar, but NFPA 704 diamonds tell firefighters and emergency responders about hazards during a fire or spill. HMIS labels give employees hazard information for routine handling. Compare layouts in our NFPA labels.
Does OSHA allow HMIS labels?
OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard allows employers to use HMIS or NFPA labeling on workplace containers, provided employees are trained so they fully understand the hazards of the chemicals they use. Shipped containers still need the label from the chemical manufacturer.
What is the difference between HMIS and HMIG labels?
HMIG stands for Hazardous Materials Identification Guide. HMIG labels use the same four-bar health, flammability, reactivity and PPE layout. See our HMIG labels, or browse all right-to-know labels for chemical-name layouts.