Title: GHS Labels and Pictograms
Type: Lesson
Proper chemical labeling is the first line of defense in chemical safety. Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), all chemical containers must follow a standardized label format, so workers can quickly recognize the dangers.
Every hazardous chemical label must include:
Product Identifier – The name or code of the chemical
Signal Word – Warning or Danger
Danger = more severe hazard
Warning = less severe
Pictograms – Visual symbols showing the type of hazard
Hazard Statements – Describe the hazard (e.g., “Causes severe skin burns”)
Precautionary Statements – How to handle safely (e.g., “Wear gloves”)
Supplier Information – Name, address, and phone number of the manufacturer or importer
There are 9 official GHS pictograms, each inside a red diamond:
| Pictogram | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Irritant, skin/eye irritation, acute toxicity (harmful) | |
| ☠️ | Acute toxicity (severe/fatal) |
| 🔥 | Flammable materials |
| 🧨 | Explosives or self-reactive |
| 🌡 | Oxidizers |
| 🫁 | Health hazard: carcinogen, respiratory sensitizer |
| 🧪 | Corrosive to skin, eyes, or metals |
| 🌫️ | Gas under pressure |
| 🌿 | Environmental toxicity (non-mandatory under OSHA) |
Danger is used for more serious or life-threatening hazards
Warning is used for less severe or moderate hazards
A label will only use one signal word — never both
Product Name: Sulfuric Acid
Signal Word: Danger
Pictograms: Corrosive, Health Hazard
Hazard Statements: Causes severe burns
Precautionary: Wear gloves, goggles, use in ventilated area
Supplier: ABC Chemical Co., (800) 555-1234
Don’t guess — read the label before handling any chemical. If the label is missing or damaged, report it and do not use the substance until it’s properly labeled.
Click “Mark Complete” to continue to Lesson 4: Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Explained, where we’ll break down the sections of an SDS and how to use them.