READING SAFETY MESSAGES ON LABELS

Steps for reading a safety message in a label:

1. Look at the safety messages on the label and note the content and design features that “jump out” at you. For example:
   • colours
   • pictures
   • font size
   • italics
   • bolding
   • capital letters
   • underlining
   • boxes
   • exclamation marks
   • white space
   • information placement
2. Identify all key words and symbols whose meanings must be clear in order to understand the label’s safety messages.
3. Define these words and interpret the symbols.
4. Read the label’s safety messages in detail and try to understand what they are saying. There will usually be 4 sections or categories of information:
   • hazard symbols: why the product is dangerous
   • precautions: what to do (and not to do) when using the product
   • what medical conditions can result if you don’t follow the precautions
   • first aid treatment
5. Look for the patterns in the first aid section and develop a first aid “label table based on “if” statements.

Practice Exercise: Acetone Label (acetone is a solvent found in paint and varnishes)