There are four main symbols, which tell us things about products with these symbols on them.
Safety precaution: wear gloves and goggles when working with this chemical and do not inhale the fumes. If you do come in contact with the area wash it off immediately, and seek immediate help.
Examples: toilet bowl cleaner, oven cleaner
Examples: fuel, alcohol, paint thinner.
Examples: aerosol containers, hairspray, spray paint etc.
Example: windshieldwasher fluid, furniture polish.
Household Hazards
•Read the label before you buy or use a household chemical product.• Follow the instructions every time you use a household chemical. By law, the label must include instructions on how to use and store the product safely. It must also show warnings of possible hazards.• Do not cover up or remove the labels from household chemical products. Never mix household chemical products together. Some mixtures can produce harmful gases.•Child resistant does not mean child proof. Close the cap on the container all the way even if you set it down for just a moment. Post emergency phone numbers by your telephone and program the number into your phone.
•Store household chemical products safely. Store all household chemical products in their original containers. Keep all safety information. Keep all household chemical products locked away, where children cannot see or reach them.Try not to store products that may release harmful fumes or catch fire inside your home. These items include paints, solvents, gasoline, fuels or varnishes. Store them according to the instructions on the product’s label in a separate building if you can, or in an area that is well vented to the outside. Dispose of leftover household chemical products safely. Buy only the amount you need for the job so there is no waste. Check your city or town's guidelines for instructions on how to dispose of chemicals and other hazardous waste
Never: burn household chemical containers, pour the contents down the drain unless directed, Inappropriately reuse empty containers
Product Identifier: The product name exactly as it appears on the container and on the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Hazard Pictograms: Hazard pictograms are determined by the hazard classification of the product. In some cases, no pictogram is needed.
Signal Word: "Danger” or “Warning” are used to emphasize hazardsand indicate their severity. In some cases, no signal word is required.
Hazard Statements: Brief standardized statements of all hazards based on the product’s hazard classification.
Precautionary Statements: hese statements describe recommended measures to minimize or prevent reaction from exposure to the product, including protective equipment and emergency measures. First aid is included in precautionary statements.
Supplier Identifier: the company that sells or imports the product and is responsible for the label and SDS. Contact the supplier for additional product information.
Hazardous Ingredients: Although disclosure of hazardous ingredients on a label is not required, the supplier may choose to include them. However, there are requirements for disclosing hazardous substances and ingredients on the SDS.
Sources:
- https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/whmis_ghs/labels.html
- http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/environment-environnement/home-maison/chemicals-chimiques-eng.php
- http://www.worksafenb.ca/docs/WHMIS-Supplier-Labels.pdf
Credits:
Created with images by Horia Varlan - "Graduated cylinders and beaker filled with chemical compounds"