Hazard symbols
Hazards
A Something that has the potential to cause harm or damage. is something that could cause:
- harm to someone
- damage to something
- adverse health effects, either straightaway or later
For example, concentrated acids are Able to damage metal, stonework, clothes and skin. Strong acids and alkalis are corrosive.. This is a hazard because acids can damage skin and clothes if they are spilt.
Using hazard symbols
Hazard symbols are used on containers. They are there to:
- indicate the dangers associated with the substance inside
- give information about how to work safely with the substance in the laboratory
Hazard symbols are designed to provide a warning, even if a person cannot understand the writing that goes with them.
Some of the new international hazard symbols and their meanings
More guides on this topic
- Formulae and equations - Edexcel
- Atomic structure - Edexcel
- The periodic table - Edexcel
- Ionic compounds - Edexcel
- Simple molecular substances - Edexcel
- Giant covalent substances - Edexcel
- Metals and non-metals - Edexcel
- Calculations for all students - Edexcel
- Higher tier only calculations - Edexcel
- Sample exam questions - key concepts in chemistry - Edexcel