GHS and safety
GHS pictograms
Definition
Nine standard hazard symbols (GHS01 to GHS09) shown on chemical labels and in section 2 of the SDS.
GHS pictograms are red bordered diamonds with a black symbol on a white background. There are nine: GHS01 exploding bomb, GHS02 flame, GHS03 flame over circle, GHS04 gas cylinder, GHS05 corrosion, GHS06 skull and crossbones, GHS07 exclamation mark, GHS08 health hazard and GHS09 environment.
A label shows every pictogram that applies, with some precedence rules to avoid repetition. For example, when the skull and crossbones applies, the exclamation mark is not also used. Transport labels for dangerous goods look similar but follow different rules, with coloured backgrounds and class numbers.
Related terms
- GHS (Globally Harmonized System)The UN system for classifying chemical hazards and communicating them through labels and safety data sheets.
- GHS01 exploding bombPictogram for explosives, self reactive substances and organic peroxides that can explode.
- GHS05 corrosionPictogram for chemicals that corrode metals, burn skin or cause serious eye damage.
- GHS06 skull and crossbonesPictogram for acute toxicity categories 1 to 3, which can be fatal or toxic after a single exposure.
- GHS07 exclamation markPictogram for less severe health hazards such as irritation, skin sensitisation and harmful acute toxicity.
- Dangerous goods classOne of nine UN transport hazard classes, from class 1 explosives to class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods.