NFPA Labels

NFPA labels must show numerical ratings for health (blue), flammability (red), instability (yellow) and any special hazards (white), such as oxidizers or water-reactive materials. Many workplaces use pre-formatted options like the ammonium hydroxide NFPA label or the benzene NFPA hazardous label. OSHA also references NFPA diamonds within its hazard communication resources.

OSHA does not enforce NFPA 704 labeling specifically, but many jurisdictions adopt NFPA standards for emergency response. OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard requires clear labeling of hazardous chemicals, and NFPA diamonds complement these rules. Labels from our NFPA labels section, such as the acetic acid NFPA label, help facilities meet recognized best practices. OSHA guidance is available at osha.gov.

NFPA labels should be placed where first responders and workers can easily see them, including container fronts, storage room doors, tank exteriors and chemical shelving areas. Many facilities apply specific chemical labels such as the anhydrous ammonia NFPA label or the ethyl acetate NFPA label to ensure clear identification.

Yes. Many facilities create custom NFPA labels to match their unique ratings for health, flammability and reactivity. You can start with existing designs such as the ether NFPA chemical label or the cyanide NFPA asphyxiant label and adjust them based on your hazard assessment. NFPA 704 provides guidance on assigning these numerical ratings.