COSHH Hazard Symbols — What They Mean

GHS (Globally Harmonised System) pictograms — the red diamond labels on products you use every day.

Symbol	Code	Meaning	Examples
Exploding bomb	GHS01	Explosive	Cartridge-operated tools, some chemicals
Flame	GHS02	Flammable	Solvents, adhesives, petrol, LPG
Flame over circle	GHS03	Oxidiser	Bleach, oxygen cylinders
Gas cylinder	GHS04	Gas under pressure	Propane, CO₂, compressed air
Corrosion	GHS05	Corrosive	Cement, drain cleaner, acids, alkalis
Skull & crossbones	GHS06	Acute toxicity	Methanol, pesticides
Exclamation mark	GHS07	Harmful / Irritant	Cement dust, some paints, cleaning products
Health hazard	GHS08	Serious health hazard	Silica dust, some epoxies, isocyanates
Dead fish & tree	GHS09	Environmental hazard	Some solvents, oils, pesticides

What You Must Do

Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before using any hazardous product Use the controls specified — extraction, ventilation, RPE, gloves, goggles Store products correctly — check the SDS for requirements Never mix products unless the SDS says it is safe Know where the eyewash station and first aid kit are

If in doubt, don't use it without proper controls and PPE.

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Related guides:

Guide 4.19 — COSHH →