Hazard communication pictograms are images that convey information about the hazards of a chemical. These images are used on labels to help people understand the risks of the chemical they may be exposed to. HCS (Hazard Communication Standard) pictograms have a red border on a white background and are designed to be easily recognized and applied consistently.
HCS pictograms are crucial because they offer a quick, visual alert to potential chemical hazards, enabling users to immediately recognize risks. This empowers individuals to take the necessary precautions when handling, using, or transporting chemicals, ensuring safety and minimizing exposure to harmful substances.
*The Hazard Communication Standard requires pictograms on labels*
Health Hazard Pictogram
- Carcinogen
- Mutagenicity
- Reproductive Toxicity
- Respiratory Sensitizer
- Target Organ Toxicity
- And, Aspiration Toxicity
Flame Pictogram
The potential dangers associated with a flame pictogram include:
- Flammables
- Pyrophorics
- Self-Heating
- Emits Flammable Gas
- Self-Reactives
- Organic Peroxides
- And, Desensitized Explosives
Exclamation Mark Pictogram
- Irritant (skin and eye)
- Skin Sensitizer
- Acute Toxicity
- Narcotic Effects
- Respiratory Tract Irritant
- Hazard Not Otherwise Classified
- And, Hazardous to Ozone Layer
Gas Cylinder Pictogram
The potential dangers associated with a gas cylinder pictogram include:
- Gases Under Pressure
- And, Chemicals Under Pressure
Corrosion Pictogram
The potential dangers associated with a corrosion pictogram include:
- Skin Corrosion/Burns
- Eye Damage
- And, Corrosive to Metals
Exploding Bomb Pictogram
The potential dangers associated with a exploding bomb pictogram include:
- Explosives
- Self-Reactives
- And, Organic Peroxides
Flame Over Circle Pictogram
This pictogram identifies oxidizers, which are chemicals that not only facilitate combustion but also intensify fires, making them burn hotter and longer. Additionally, understanding the presence of oxidizers is crucial for preventing dangerous fire hazards.
Environment Pictogram
The environment pictogram (Non-Mandatory) identifies chemicals that pose a toxicity risk to aquatic wildlife, highlighting their potential harm to ecosystems.
Skull and Crossbones Pictogram
This pictogram indicates substances, like poisons and highly concentrated acids, that can cause immediate and severe toxic effects. In addition, the Skull and Crossbones pictogram emphasizes acute toxicity, highlighting the potential for quick and significant health hazards.
Resources
OSHA has a Hazard Communication Pictograms webpage where you can download pictogram files.
A Hazard Communication Standard: Labels and Pictograms PDF can be found through OSHA that provides information on labels and pictograms.
JJ Safety provides safety meetings, safety programs, and online safety training on topics like hazard communication.
Conclusion
Hazard communication pictograms play a crucial role in ensuring safety and awareness in workplaces and beyond. By providing clear, easy-to-understand visual cues about potential risks, these symbols help reduce accidents and promote a culture of safety. As regulations and standards evolve, the importance of standardized hazard pictograms grows, ensuring that people across industries and regions can quickly recognize and respond to hazards.