Hazard Communication Pictograms: A Visual Guide

?Hazard communication pictograms are standardized symbols used to quickly and easily communicate the potential hazards of chemicals. These symbols are visually distinct and are designed to be universally understood. Here’s a breakdown of each pictogram:

1.?Flame

• What it means:?This pictogram indicates that the substance is flammable and can catch fire easily.
• Examples:?Gasoline,?alcohol,?butane.
• Think:?Imagine a campfire.?These substances are like the wood that can easily ignite.

2.?Health Hazard

• What it means:?This pictogram warns that the substance can cause serious health problems.?It could be toxic,?irritating,?or harmful if inhaled,?ingested,?or absorbed through the skin.
• Examples:?Lead,?asbestos,?benzene.
• Think:?Imagine a doctor's office.?This pictogram is like a warning sign about a contagious disease.

3.?Exclamation Mark

• What it means:?This pictogram indicates that the substance is irritating or a mild health hazard.?It might cause skin or eye irritation,?or respiratory problems.
• Examples:?Ammonia,?chlorine,?acetone.
• Think:?Imagine a bee sting.?It's painful and irritating,?but not life-threatening.

4.?Corrosive

• What it means:?This pictogram warns that the substance can cause skin corrosion or burns,?or eye damage.?It can also corrode metals.
• Examples:?Acids,?bases,?alkalis.
• Think:?Imagine a strong acid that can burn a hole in your skin.

5.?Explosive

• What it means:?This pictogram indicates that the substance is sensitive to shock,?friction,?or heat and can explode.
• Examples:?Dynamite,?gunpowder,?nitroglycerin.
• Think:?Imagine a bomb.?These substances are highly unstable and can cause a powerful explosion.

6.?Gas Cylinder

• What it means:?This pictogram indicates that the substance is a compressed gas that can be flammable,?toxic,?or corrosive.
• Examples:?Oxygen,?nitrogen,?propane.
• Think:?Imagine a scuba tank.?These gases are under high pressure and can be dangerous if handled improperly.

7.?Flame Over Circle

• What it means:?This pictogram indicates that the substance is an oxidizing agent.?It can intensify a fire or cause a fire to burn more vigorously.
• Examples:?Hydrogen peroxide,?sodium nitrate.
• Think:?Imagine a fire being fanned by a strong wind.?This substance is like the wind,?making the fire burn hotter and faster.

8.?Skull and Crossbones

• What it means:?This pictogram indicates that the substance is acutely toxic,?meaning it can cause death or serious health effects if ingested,?inhaled,?or absorbed through the skin.
• Examples:?Arsenic,?cyanide,?mercury.
• Think:?Imagine a pirate flag.?This pictogram is a serious warning that the substance is highly dangerous.

9.?Environment

• What it means:?This pictogram indicates that the substance is harmful to the environment,?such as aquatic life,?soil,?or air.
• Examples:?Pesticides,?heavy metals,?certain solvents.
• Think:?Imagine a polluted river.?These substances can harm plants,?animals,?and the overall health of the environment.

Remember: These pictograms are just a warning. It's essential to always read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for specific information about a chemical, including its hazards, safe handling, and first aid measures.