Understanding Hazard Signs 

Productive and useful work can only be accomplished with a careful inspection of safety measures. In laboratory practices, this includes acknowledging the safety equipment, evacuation procedures, and proper protective gear. However, a common safety instruction that tends to be overlooked by laboratory personnel is safety symbols labeled on chemicals. Ignoring this small detail might cause significant damage to oneself or the surrounding environment. 

There are at least nine types of hazards everyone working in a laboratory should know to ensure laboratory safety. The following are the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA) in the United States. 

The oxidizer symbol indicates that the corresponding chemical facilitates burning and makes fires burn at a hotter temperature and for a longer period. 

The flammable symbol implies that these materials may emit flammable gas or spontaneously ignite if exposed to air or water. 

The explosives symbol is mostly included in organic peroxides and unstable materials that easily explode, whether exposed to air or in a vacuum. 

The toxic chemicals symbol signifies that these materials have immediate and severe toxic effects. Poisons and highly concentrated acids are classified as toxic chemicals. 

The corrosive symbol identifies materials that can cause skin corrosion or burns. These materials may also damage eyes and metals during contact. 

The gas cylinder symbol denotes gaseous materials stored in cylinders under pressure. Examples include ammonia and nitrogen gases. 

The health hazard symbol indicates the presence of cancer-causing materials. In addition, this symbol also applies to materials that can cause toxicity issues to respiratory, reproductive, or organs. 

The environment symbol suggests that these chemicals are toxic to aquatic life. 

The exclamation mark symbol warns every laboratory personnel that the chemical substance can irritate the skin, eyes, or respiratory tract. 

Suci Amelia

All Author Posts