OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewHealth Hazards in ConstructionEasy
A construction worker is handling a product labeled with a GHS pictogram showing a skull and crossbones. What does this pictogram primarily indicate?
- AThe product is an oxidizer and can cause or intensify fire.
- BThe product is acutely toxic and can cause death or poisoning.
- CThe product is flammable and can easily ignite.
- DThe product is corrosive to metals and skin.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The product is acutely toxic and can cause death or poisoning.
The skull and crossbones pictogram is universally recognized under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) as an indicator of acute toxicity, signifying that the substance can cause severe health effects or death if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This describes the 'Flame over Circle' pictogram.
- C. This describes the 'Flame' pictogram.
- D. This describes the 'Corrosion' pictogram.
GHS Skull and Crossbones
The GHS skull and crossbones pictogram indicates acute toxicity, which means a chemical can cause severe health effects or death from a single, short-term exposure.
- Represents acute toxicity (fatal or toxic)
- Applies to oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure routes
- One of nine GHS pictograms
Memory trick: Skull and Crossbones means 'Danger: Death or severe poison!'