Hazard Symbols & Labels

For recognition purposes, the hazard symbols in the catalog are from Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), part 172 (DOT), yet the criteria used for assigning hazard symbols is primarily from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard Z129.1 for Hazardous Industrial Chemicals Precautionary Labeling. The hazard symbols in the catalog are provided only as a guide for quick recognition of the acute hazards associated with our chemicals. They are not to be used in lieu of reading the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) nor do they necessarily reflect correct DOT markings. Please refer to 49CFR for correct DOT markings.

corrosive material warning

Corrosive: These substances destroy living tissue and equipment upon contact. Caution! Do not breathe vapors; avoid contact with skin and eyes.

Oxidizer Hazardous Material Warning Symbol, GFS Chemicals

Oxidizer: Oxidizing substances can ignite flammable and combustible material or worsen existing fire and thus make firefighting more difficult. Caution! Keep away from flammable, combustible and spontaneously combustible materials.

Flammable Hazardous Material Rating Symbol, GFS Chemicals

Flammable: Designates those items which are:

Flammable Liquids - Caution! Flash point below 141°F (60.5°C)
Flammable Solids - Caution! Keep away from open fires, sources of heat and sparks.
Combustible Material - Caution! Flash point greater than 141°F but less than 200°F (or greater than 60.5°C but less than 90°C).

Keep away from open flames, sources of heat and sparks. Note: Most combustible materials sold by Spectrum are not subject to DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations per 29CFR 173.150.

Poisonous Hazard Material Warning Symbol, GFS Chemicals

Poisonous Substances: Very hazardous to health when inhaled, swallowed or when they come in contact with the skin. May even lead to death. Danger! Avoid contact with the human body and immediately contact a physician in case of contact.