OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewHealth Hazards in ConstructionMedium
A construction worker is working with a chemical that has a signal word 'Danger' on its label. What does the signal word 'Danger' primarily indicate according to the GHS (Globally Harmonized System)?
- AThe chemical is mildly irritating but not severely hazardous.
- BThe chemical presents a more severe hazard than indicated by 'Warning'.
- CThe chemical is only hazardous if ingested in large quantities.
- DThe chemical poses a less severe hazard than indicated by 'Warning'.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The chemical presents a more severe hazard than indicated by 'Warning'.
Under the GHS, 'Danger' is used for more severe hazards, while 'Warning' is used for less severe hazards. Therefore, 'Danger' indicates a higher level of risk.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Warning' would typically indicate milder irritation.
- C. The signal word indicates overall hazard severity, not just ingestion risk or quantity.
- D. 'Danger' indicates a more severe hazard, not less severe.
GHS Signal Word 'Danger'
In the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), 'Danger' is a signal word used on chemical labels to indicate a more severe hazard level compared to the signal word 'Warning'.
- Indicates a higher level of hazard severity.
- Used for chemicals with significant risks.
- One of two signal words in GHS (the other being 'Warning').
Memory trick: Danger means more danger, Warning is less!