vaarallisuusmerkinnät

Vaarallisuusmerkinnät, often referred to as hazard pictograms or GHS pictograms, are standardized visual symbols used to convey information about the potential hazards of a chemical substance or mixture. These pictograms are a crucial component of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), an international system designed to ensure consistent and clear communication of chemical hazards worldwide.

The pictograms consist of a red diamond border enclosing a black symbol on a white background. Each symbol represents a specific type of hazard, such as physical hazards (e.g., flammability, explosivity), health hazards (e.g., carcinogenicity, toxicity), or environmental hazards. For instance, a flame symbol indicates flammability, while a skull and crossbones symbol denotes acute toxicity.

These labels are typically found on the packaging of chemicals, along with other hazard communication elements like signal words (e.g., "Danger," "Warning") and hazard statements that describe the nature of the hazard and its severity. The primary purpose of vaarallisuusmerkinnät is to alert users to potential dangers, enabling them to take appropriate precautions to handle, store, and use chemicals safely. They play a vital role in preventing accidents, injuries, and environmental damage.