What is the primary purpose of labeling hazardous materials?

The primary purpose of labeling hazardous materials is to inform and protect those handling the materials. Labels provide critical information about the nature of the hazards associated with the substances, warning users of potential dangers such as toxicity, flammability, or reactivity. This information is essential for ensuring the safety of workers, emergency responders, and the environment by enabling proper handling, storage, and disposal.

While compliance with legal requirements is necessary and does play a role in the labeling process, the ultimate goal revolves around ensuring that everyone involved with the hazardous material is aware of the risks and understands how to manage those risks effectively. Likewise, increasing sales or ensuring timely delivery are not fundamental purposes of hazardous materials labeling, as the focus is primarily on safety and risk communication rather than commercial or logistical concerns.