The problem of every medical label that fades and/or falls off has been an issue in healthcare (and in many other fields) for a long time. Whether it is a label on a test tube or on a prescription bottle, the criticality of reliable labeling cannot be overstated in an industry where someone’s life may hang in the balance. A medical label may have to last for a long time, especially in various types of storage, such as in boxes or in a freezer.
But what about ensuring that the label remains properly affixed and legible? It is a difficult endeavor when records and samples are kept for several years (most states require retention times of anywhere from 7 to 25 years) and many physicians keep records indefinitely for future family medical histories. Labels smear, adhesive dries out, chemicals spoil the ink, and colors fade.
Planning a medical label will help ensure that it will last as long as you need it. What type of environment will the label be exposed to? Different types of adhesives will allow the label to survive a frozen environment; other adhesives will be better in a paper-based storage system. For example, cryogenics label adhesives will stick even at absolute zero and long-term solid hold series of adhesives provide options for decades of file storage.
Does the customer need a non-smearing, non-fading label? Several coatings choices are available, including laminating, heat and chemical resistance coatings, and even UV coatings. Lamination will help protect your label from wet environments or inclement weather. Pharmaceutical industries can benefit from heat- and chemical-resistant label coatings. A UV varnish is a UV cured coating for added protection and does not help with fading. In many applications, thermal labels and thermochromatic inks will provide additional support for the customer’s specific needs.
An in-depth discussion with a client is invaluable when it comes to meeting and exceeding their expectations. With several types of adhesives, protectants, finishes, and over 200 types of label materials, our expertise will guarantee that your clients receive the care and attention that is needed to provide them with labels that can withstand even the most extreme environments and strictest requirements.