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GHS Pictogram and Signal Word Chart

The nine GHS hazard pictograms, what each one warns about, and how the two signal words Danger and Warning show how serious the hazard is.

Ref JS-020329 CFR 1910.1200 Appendix C

Draft, open for review. Check every value against the governing standard and the manufacturer’s data before use.

What it is

OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard uses the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) to label hazardous chemicals. Each label can carry one or more pictograms: a black symbol on a white background inside a red diamond border. The label also carries one signal word. Danger is used for the more severe hazards. Warning is used for the less severe ones. A label never shows both. Appendix C of 29 CFR 1910.1200 sets out the label elements.

How to read it

Find the signal word near the product name. Danger means take the most care.
Match each red diamond to the chart below.
Read the hazard statements next to the pictograms. They say exactly what the hazard is.
Read the precautionary statements for PPE, storage and first aid.
Check the SDS for the full detail.

The nine pictograms

Pictogram	Name	Hazards it marks	Where janitors see it
Flame	Flame	Flammable liquids, gases and aerosols; self-heating; emits flammable gas	Aerosol sprays, some solvents and spotters
Flame over circle	Oxidizer	Oxidizers that feed a fire	Some pool and laundry chemicals
Exploding bomb	Exploding bomb	Explosives, self-reactives, organic peroxides	Rare in jan-san
Corrosion	Corrosion	Skin burns, serious eye damage, corrosive to metals	Strippers, drain openers, bowl cleaners, degreasers
Gas cylinder	Gas cylinder	Gases under pressure	Compressed gas cylinders
Skull and crossbones	Skull and crossbones	Acute toxicity (fatal or toxic)	Some pesticides and specialty products
Exclamation mark	Exclamation mark	Irritant, skin sensitizer, harmful, narcotic effects	Many general cleaners and disinfectants
Health hazard	Health hazard	Carcinogen, respiratory sensitizer, reproductive or organ toxicity, aspiration	Some solvents and specialty products
Environment	Environment	Aquatic toxicity	Some disinfectants and concentrates

Key points

The Environment pictogram is part of GHS but is not mandatory under OSHA's standard. It may still appear on labels.
The signal word is set by the most severe hazard on the label.
A product can carry several pictograms. Each one matters.
Secondary containers such as spray bottles need a workplace label with the product name and the hazard information. Follow 29 CFR 1910.1200(f).
The pictogram tells you the type of hazard. It does not tell you the PPE. Use the label and SDS Section 8.

Common mistakes

Assuming no pictogram means no hazard. Read the label anyway.
Treating Warning products as safe to handle without gloves or eye protection.
Leaving refilled spray bottles unlabeled.
Confusing the Corrosion and Exclamation mark pictograms when training new staff.

Governing standards: 29 CFR 1910.1200 (Hazard Communication), including Appendix C (label elements).

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.

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