GHS Hazard Communication: Which Chemical Safety Signs Are Mandatory in Indian Factories
Understanding GHS — The Global Language of Chemical Hazards
If you operate a chemical plant in Gujarat, a pharmaceutical facility in Hyderabad, or even a small electroplating unit in Ludhiana, you handle hazardous chemicals. The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) was created by the United Nations to replace the confusing patchwork of chemical hazard communication systems. India adopted GHS through the MSIHC Rules 1989 and Chemical Accidents Rules 1996, with reinforcement under the OSH Code 2020.
The 9 GHS Hazard Pictograms
1. Flame (GHS02) — Flammable
Where you need it: Solvent storage, paint shops, fuel depots, LPG areas, chemical warehouses storing Class 3 flammable liquids.
2. Flame Over Circle (GHS03) — Oxidiser
Where you need it: Near hydrogen peroxide, potassium permanganate, sodium hypochlorite storage. Common in water treatment and textile bleaching.
3. Exploding Bomb (GHS01) — Explosive
Where you need it: Facilities handling organic peroxides and reactive chemical combinations.
4. Gas Cylinder (GHS04) — Gas Under Pressure
Where you need it: Nitrogen, oxygen, acetylene, CO2, argon cylinder storage areas. Most Indian factories have at least one welding gas storage area.
5. Corrosion (GHS05) — Corrosive
Where you need it: Battery rooms (sulphuric acid), electroplating shops, acid/alkali storage, cleaning chemical stores.
6. Skull and Crossbones (GHS06) — Acute Toxicity
Where you need it: Pesticide formulation plants, pharmaceutical API manufacturing, cyanide usage areas.
7. Exclamation Mark (GHS07) — Irritant / Harmful
Where you need it: This is the most commonly needed pictogram — covers cleaning chemicals, mild solvents, adhesives, many everyday industrial chemicals.
8. Health Hazard (GHS08) — Serious Health Hazard
Where you need it: Asbestos handling areas, benzene exposure areas, chromium handling, certain pharmaceutical processes.
9. Environment (GHS09) — Hazardous to Aquatic Environment
Where you need it: Near effluent discharge points, chemical storage near water bodies. CPCB/SPCB inspectors specifically check for this.
Where to Display GHS Signs
- On the container/packaging — GHS labels on every drum, bottle, IBC, and storage vessel
- On the storage area — wall signs at entry to chemical storage rooms
- In the work area — where chemicals are used/handled, combined with PPE mandatory signs
PPE Signs That Accompany GHS Areas
| GHS Hazard | Complementary PPE Signs |
|---|---|
| Corrosive | Chemical goggles, face shield, acid-resistant gloves, rubber apron |
| Flammable | Fire-resistant clothing, no synthetic fabrics sign |
| Toxic / Harmful | Respiratory protection, chemical gloves |
| Gas Under Pressure | Safety goggles, safety shoes |
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