Beginning when OSHA first aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS), chemical manufacturers began implementing new labeling strategies to comply with the system’s requirements. In addition to meeting GHS standards, many chemical companies must also comply with BS5609 for marine shipment of chemicals. BS5609 certification is required for IMDG chemical drum labels and involves rigorous testing, including three months of saltwater exposure.
After years of printing GHS and BS5609-compliant labels, many chemical manufacturers, re-packagers, and others who regularly print hazard labels are now looking to upgrade aging equipment - especially as recent changes in labeling requirements, technology advancements, and productivity demands reshape what’s needed from a modern GHS label printer.
Why the Need To Upgrade Now?
Production Stoppage Prevention
Like any mechanical device, label printers wear down over time. Many companies are still using printers that have been in service for years. Since GHS labeling is mission-critical for shipping, outdated or unreliable printers can lead to downtime, delays, and costly production interruptions. Upgrading ensures consistent performance and reduces the risk of equipment failure.
Technology Improvement
The newest GHS-compliant label printers have advanced significantly in speed, reliability, connectivity, and print quality. GHS labels require color for compliant pictograms, and modern two-color printing systems now deliver sharper images, more durability, and greater flexibility than ever before.
Cost Reduction
Newer GHS label printing systems can help decrease overall labeling costs. Faster and more efficient printers reduce labor time, eliminate bottlenecks, and minimize downtime. Supplies and consumables are more cost-effective, and improved connectivity allows for more efficient workflows. Combined with newer, more affordable BS5609-compliant label materials, these improvements offer significant long-term savings.
What Are Your Best Options?
When GHS labeling first became a requirement, companies chose among thermal transfer, laser, and inkjet printing technologies. While all these options still exist today, labeling requirements have evolved—especially around color usage for hazard pictograms and clarity of communication. Many companies are now searching for technology that delivers true two-color output, durability, and reliability for high-volume industrial use.
GHS-Compliant Label Printer Spotlight: The Cab XC Q Series
To help companies upgrade and modernize their GHS labeling systems, we recommend the Cab XC Q Series Industrial Two-Color Thermal Transfer Label Printers. Designed specifically with GHS compliance in mind, the XC Q Series offers advanced dual-color printing with outstanding precision, performance, and cost efficiency.
Two-Color Printing for GHS Pictograms
The XC Q Series features two fully independent print heads, enabling true simultaneous two-color printing—ideal for the red diamond pictograms required for GHS compliance. This also eliminates the need for pre-printed red-border labels and allows on-demand printing of only the labels you need.
Ribbon-Saving Technology
Printhead 1 automatically lifts when color isn’t needed, stopping ribbon movement and reducing waste. This efficiency lowers operating costs, increases ribbon life, and decreases changeover time.
Industrial-Quality Output
At 300 dpi with advanced transmissive and reflective sensor technology, the XC Q produces crisp, consistent labels suitable for chemical containers, drums, and BS5609-compliant applications.
Built for Productivity
The XC Q Series supports seamless job changes, fast print speeds (up to 150 mm/s), and large print widths—
- XC Q4: up to 4.16"
- XC Q6.3: up to 6.3"
Both models include cutters as standard and offer additional industrial options.
Easy to Use and Maintain
With an intuitive color touchscreen, tutorial videos, and a bi-fold door for simple consumable replacement, the XC Q Series is designed for straightforward operation and fast maintenance.
GHS Labels
The printer is only one part of a complete GHS labeling solution. Using the right label materials is essential for producing durable, compliant labels—especially for chemical drums and marine transport. General Data offers a full range of GHS and BS5609-certified label materials compatible with the Cab XC Q Series. We maintain stock sizes in both paper and film, in gloss and matte finishes, and can also produce custom labels to match your exact specifications.