What is the GHS?
The GHS was developed by the United Nations to introduce uniform global standards for communicating the hazards of chemical substances. It uses clear symbols and labels to protect people, companies and the environment from risks.
The core elements of the GHS
- Hazard classes and categories: Classify chemical substances according to their hazards (e.g. physical, health-related, environmental).
- Hazard pictograms: Unique symbols used on labels and safety data sheets.
- H- and P-phrases: Standardized information on hazards and safety measures.
- Signal words: “Danger” or “Caution” as a brief warning.
The GHS hazard pictograms in detail
GHS01 – Explosive
- Symbol: Exploding bomb
- Meaning: Warns of explosive substances and mixtures.
- Application: Chemicals that can explode due to impact, friction, heat or ignition.
- Example substances: explosives, pyrotechnic substances.
GHS02 – Flammable
- Symbol: Flame
- Meaning: Indicates highly flammable substances and mixtures.
- Application: Substances that catch fire easily or are self-igniting on contact with air.
- Example substances: gasoline, ethanol, hydrogen.
GHS03 – Oxidizing
- Symbol: Flame over a circle
- Meaning: Warns of substances that can promote fires.
- Application: Oxidizing substances that release oxygen and intensify fires.
- Example substances: Hydrogen peroxide, potassium chlorate.
GHS04 – Gas under pressure
- Symbol: Gas cylinder
- Meaning: Indicates compressed, liquefied or refrigerated gases.
- Application: Substances that can explode or cause cold burns if handled improperly.
- Example substances: propane, nitrogen, liquid gas.
GHS05 – Corrosive
- Symbol: Corrosive effect on metal and skin
- Meaning: Warns of substances that can corrode metals or skin.
- Application: Chemicals with a strong corrosive effect.
- Example substances: sulphuric acid, sodium hydroxide.
GHS06 – Toxic
- Symbol: Skull with crossed bones
- Significance: Danger to life if inhaled, swallowed or in contact with skin.
- Application: Highly toxic substances that can cause immediate damage to health.
- Example substances: cyanides, methanol.
GHS07 – Warning (Irritant)
- Symbol: Exclamation mark
- Meaning: Warning of irritant or harmful substances.
- Application: Substances that may cause eye, skin or respiratory tract irritation.
- Example substances: ammonia, acetone.
GHS08 – Health hazard
- Symbol: Human with damaged organs
- Meaning: Indicates substances that can cause long-term damage to health.
- Application: Carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic substances.
- Example substances: asbestos, benzene.
GHS09 – Dangerous for the environment
- Symbol: Tree and fish
- Meaning: Warns of substances that can harm the environment, especially aquatic organisms.
- Application: Chemicals with acute or long-term hazards for the environment.
- Example substances: pesticides, heavy metals.
Connection with H and P phrases
The hazard pictograms are supplemented by H and P phrases, which provide specific information about the hazards and safety measures. Find out more in our article
H-phrases (hazard statements)
- H200-H290: Physical hazards
- H300-H373: Health hazards
- H400-H413: Environmental hazards
P-phrases (safety instructions)
- P100-P103: General information
- P200-P285: Prevention
- P300-P390: Behavior in an emergency
- P400-P410: Storage
- P500: Disposal
Advantages of the GHS hazard pictograms
- Global comprehensibility: Clear symbols make it easier to identify risks worldwide.
- Increased safety: Uniform markings minimize accidents and misunderstandings.
- Environmental protection: Dangers to nature are emphasized.
- Legal compliance: Companies meet international standards.
