Chemicals have different properties, such as being toxic, flammable, corrosive, and many more. To improve safety from the chemicals, GHS hazard pictograms are used, which are universal, legally mandated shorthand for chemical risks. In this article, we will learn what GB CLP.
You have noticed hazard symbols on the vehicles transporting chemicals. They also have symbols. It’s important to note that transport labels and GHS pictograms are two distinct labeling systems: transport placards, defined by the UN’s Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, warn carriers and emergency responders about hazards during shipping, while GHS pictograms appear on product labels and safety data sheets to show hazards.
Before we get into the hazard symbol, let’s have a quick introduction to the topic.
Table of Contents
What are GB CLP hazard pictograms?
GB CLP stands for Great Britain Classification, Labelling and Packaging are the standardized warning symbols mandated on chemical labels in the UK. There are a total of nine pictograms. These are diamond-shaped graphic with a red border and white background, containing a simple black icon that instantly communicates a specific hazard, such as flammability, toxicity, corrosivity or environmental harm.
By glancing at these symbols, users can quickly recognize the dangers a substance presents and take the appropriate precautions
What is the purpose of GHS Hazard Pictograms?
Some chemicals are hazardous, and we need to take care of them. Sometimes, we can’t open the chemical’s MSDS and learn whether it is harmful or not. In that case, these diagrams are helpful. If you have basic knowledge of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, nine diagrams, just a glance is enough to know the chemical’s hazard.
Benefits are listed below;
- Instant visual alerts: A quick, language-free signal of a chemical’s main danger (flammable, toxic, corrosive, etc.).
- Global consistency: The same nine red-diamond icons everywhere, so users worldwide interpret hazards identically.
- Safety & compliance foundation: They’re legally required on labels and helps in emergency response and proper handling procedures.
Nine GHS Pictograms
There are nine Globally Harmonized System (GHS) hazard pictograms that are universal.
| Pictogram | Code | Hazard Class | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
 | GHS01 | Explosives | TNT, peroxides |
 | GHS02 | Oxidizing gases, liquids, and solids | Ethanol, propane |
 | GHS03 | Oxidizing gases, liquids, and solids | Hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid |
 | GHS04 | Gases under pressure | Compressed air, LPG |
 | GHS05 | Corrosive to metals and skin | Sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide |
 | GHS06 | Acute toxicity (fatal or toxic) | Cyanide, carbon monoxide |
 | GHS07 | Harmful/Irritant | Ammonia |
 | GHS08 | Serious health hazards (e.g., carcinogenicity) | Asbestos, benzene |
 | GHS09 | Environmental toxicity (aquatic) | Pesticides, oil spill residues |
FAQ (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals)
1. What is the meaning of the biohazard symbol?
This means that the chemical contains harmful biological material that has the potential to harm the environment and human beings. GHS09 symbol contains dead tree next to a dead fish.
2. What is the full form of GHS?
GHS stands for Globally Harmonized System of Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals.
3. What is the pictogram GHS08?
GHS08 indicates health hazards. It applies to chemicals that can harm human health, including respiratory sensitization, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and reproductive toxicity.
4. How many ghs hazard pictograms are defined?
There are a total of nine hazard symbols, and those are Explosive, Flammable, Oxidizing, Gas under pressure, Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant, Health hazard, and Environmental hazard.
Wrapping Up
This was a detailed informative article on GHS hazard pictograms along with the diagram and symbols. These are useful for compliance and for safety purposes. If you have any doubts, feel free to comment
