745 Welding, Cutting, and Brazing Safety

HCS Pictogram Requirements

The HCS requires pictograms on labels to alert users of the chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. Each pictogram consists of a symbol on a white background framed within a red border. Each pictogram represents a distinct hazard. The pictogram on the label is determined by the chemical hazard classification.

The GHS uses a total of nine pictograms, OSHA only enforces the use of eight pictograms. The environmental pictogram is not mandatory but may be used to provide supplementary information.

The purpose of pictograms is to ensure that workers can quickly recognize the potential hazards associated with exposure to chemical products regardless of the user’s language, culture, or literary level, thereby improving safety in handling, storage, and transport. Below is a brief description of each of the nine pictograms.

1. Health Hazard: This pictogram indicates chemicals that may cause serious health effects such as cancer, respiratory sensitization, reproductive toxicity, organ damage, or genetic mutations.
2. Flame: This pictogram is used for substances that are flammable, self-heating, emit flammable gases when in contact with water, or are capable of spontaneous combustion.
3. Exclamation Mark: This pictogram identifies chemicals that may cause less severe health effects like skin and eye irritation, skin sensitization, or respiratory issues such as drowsiness and dizziness.
4. Gas Cylinder: This pictogram represents gases under pressure. These gases can explode if heated or may cause cold burns and injuries if released suddenly.
5. Corrosion: This pictogram is used for chemicals that can cause severe skin burns, eye damage, or corrode metals.
6. Exploding Bomb: This pictogram warns of explosive materials, including self-reactive chemicals and organic peroxides that may explode under certain conditions.
7. Flame Over Circle: This pictogram represents oxidizing agents—chemicals that can intensify fires by releasing oxygen or reacting dangerously with other substances.
8. Skull and Crossbones: This pictogram indicates acute toxicity. Chemicals with this symbol can cause death or serious health effects quickly when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin.
9. Environment (Non-Mandatory under OSHA): This pictogram is used to show that a chemical is toxic to aquatic life and may cause environmental damage over time. While part of the GHS, it is not required by OSHA.

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