The nine hazard pictograms
Every chemical container carries one or more of these red diamonds. Know what each one means.
| Pictogram | Means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| GHS01 Exploding bomb | Can explode | Keep away from heat, sparks and shocks |
| GHS02 Flame | Flammable | No flames, sparks or smoking nearby |
| GHS03 Flame over circle | Oxidiser: makes fires burn harder | Keep away from fuels and flammables |
| GHS04 Gas cylinder | Gas under pressure | Secure it upright; keep it cool |
| GHS05 Corrosion | Burns skin and eyes; eats metal | Gloves and eye protection |
| GHS06 Skull and crossbones | Toxic, even in small amounts | Avoid contact and breathing it; follow the data sheet |
| GHS07 Exclamation mark | Irritant or harmful | Avoid contact; wash after use |
| GHS08 Health hazard | Serious long-term harm (lungs, cancer) | Use the protection the data sheet says |
| GHS09 Environment | Harms aquatic life | Never let it reach the sea or drains |
Storing chemicals
- Keep incompatible products apart.
- Corrosive liquids in breakable containers go away from flammables.
- Keep containers closed, ventilated, and out of the sun and rain.
- Check the safety data sheet.