HazCom Pictograms and Labels: A Complete Guide
Hazcom logo with the words hazcom on it.

What Are HazCom Pictograms?

Under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 1910.1200), which aligns with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), pictograms are visual symbols used to communicate specific chemical hazards. These red diamond icons are required on labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to alert workers quickly and clearly to the nature of the danger.

Understanding and correctly applying these pictograms is essential for compliance and worker protection in any facility using hazardous substances.

GHS Pictograms and Their Meanings

Exploding Bomb

GHS pictogram for explosives—exploding bomb symbol inside a red diamond on black background
  • Indicates: Explosives, self-reactive substances, organic peroxides
  • Example: TNT, benzoyl peroxide

Flame

GHS Pictogram for flammable materials—used for chemicals that ignite easily.
  • Indicates: Flammable gases, liquids, solids, aerosols; self-heating substances
  • Example: Acetone, propane

Flame Over Circle

GHS pictogram for oxidizing substances—flame over a circle inside a red diamond border
  • Indicates: Oxidizers (liquids, solids, gases)
  • Example: Hydrogen peroxide, potassium nitrate

Gas Cylinder

GHS pictogram for gas under pressure—white gas cylinder icon inside a red diamond on black background
  • Indicates: Gases under pressure
  • Example: Oxygen, nitrogen

Corrosion

GHS corrosion symbol showing test tubes pouring liquid onto a hand and metal surface, both being damaged
  • Indicates: Skin corrosion/burns, eye damage, corrosive to metals
  • Example: Hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide

Skull and Crossbones

GHS skull and crossbones symbol—white skull with crossed bones on black background with red diamond border, indicating acute toxicity
  • Indicates: Acute toxicity (fatal or toxic)
  • Example: Cyanide, arsenic

Exclamation Mark

Exclamation mark pictogram indicating irritants, skin sensitizers, or harmful substances.
  • Indicates: Irritation, sensitization, acute toxicity (less severe)
  • Example: Ammonia, acetone

Health Hazard

GHS Health Hazard pictogram showing a human silhouette with a starburst symbol on the chest inside a red diamond
  • Indicates: Carcinogenicity, respiratory sensitization, organ toxicity
  • Example: Benzene, formaldehyde

Environment

GHS pictogram for environmental hazard—white dead fish and tree on black background with red diamond border
  • Indicates: Aquatic toxicity (acute or chronic)
  • Example: Mercury, nonylphenol

When Must These Pictograms Appear?

  • Labels on shipped hazardous chemical containers
  • Section 2 of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
  • Workplace container labels (if not exempt)

OSHA vs. DOT Labeling: What’s the Difference?

OSHA (HazCom/GHS)DOT (Transportation Placards)
Red diamond pictogramsSquare placards with class numbers
Required in workplacesRequired in shipping
29 CFR 1910.120049 CFR Parts 100–185

Note: DOT labels apply in transit; OSHA pictograms apply in the workplace.

Why GHS Pictograms Matter

  • Compliance: Avoid OSHA citations
  • Safety: Prevent injuries and exposure
  • Training: Support employee awareness

Get Your Free GHS Pictogram Poster

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FAQs: HazCom Pictograms

Do all chemicals require pictograms? Yes, unless specifically exempted by OSHA.

Is the environmental pictogram mandatory? No, but it is recommended for international shipments and general awareness.

What happens if I mislabel a chemical? OSHA fines, employee injuries, and regulatory delays may result.