Hazardous Chemicals Handbook 2 Episode 12 doc

First aid
In Great Britain the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 require an employer to
provide such equipment and facilities as are adequate and appropriate in the circumstances to
enable first aid to be rendered to his employees if they are injured, or become ill, at work. An
Approved Code of Practice gives more specific details on the number of first-aid personnel and
their training, and the type of equipment.
Emergency first aid
A qualified first-aider, or nurse, should be called immediately to deal with any injury – however
slight – incurred at work.
Any person on the spot may have to act immediately to provide first-aid treatment to prevent
deterioration in the injured person’s condition until assistance arrives. The aims are:
• To sustain life.
• To minimize danger.
• To relieve pain and distress.
Check the situation for danger to rescuers, then act as follows:
The patient: is in danger Remove from danger, or remove the danger from
the patient
is not breathing If competent to do so, give artificial ventilation.
Otherwise send for help without delay
has no pulse Start cardiac compressions
is bleeding Stop bleeding
Table 13.7 Procedure to treat spillages in a laboratory
Instruct others to keep a safe distance
Remove contaminated clothing and wash the hands before putting on protective clothing
Shut off all sources of ignition (for spillage of flammable fluid); do not operate electric switches in the vicinity
Ventilate the area well (for at least 10 min) to reduce irritant vapours and biological aerosols, and to evaporate remaining
liquid (bear in mind that ventilation may transfer the danger to other parts of the premises)
Areas with sealed windows should have controlled ventilation (areas that cannot be adequately ventilated are unsuitable for
use with hazardous materials)
Turn off the source of the leak and limit the spread of fluid by means of mop, dusters, rags, sand or diversion
Absorb spillage and shovel into buckets, and remove to a safe place, dilute greatly with running water and/or dilute with

dispersing agent and water (as with ammonia solution, ethanol, methanol and formaldehyde solution)
Neutralize acid with soda ash, chalk or similar materials kept for the purpose, mop up cautiously with water (in case local
areas of concentrated acid have been missed)
Use hypochlorite solutions in excess scattered over spillage of cyanide solutions and wearing respirator and gloves, mop up
and collect in buckets. Allow to stand for 24 hours before diluting greatly and running to waste
Flood with a phenolic disinfectant any biologically contaminated area for 30 to 60 min and then clean up with water and
allow to dry. After cleaning up wash hands with a suitable skin disinfectant (such as 0.5% Chlorhexidine in 70%
methylated spirit)
Use forceps or a brush and pan with broken glass; never use the fingers, even with gloves. Disinfect broken glass arising from
biological spills
Dispose of, by special arrangements, chemicals which cannot be admitted to the public sewerage system, e.g. flammable
liquids and reagents with high toxicity
FIRST AID 429
430 OPERATING PROCEDURES
is unconscious Check the mouth for any obstruction. Open the
airway by tilting the head back and lifting the
chin using the tips of two fingers. If this does
not keep the airway open, turn the casualty into
the recovery position i.e. turn on side and ensure
they cannot roll over; lift the chain
feels faint Lie him or her down
has broken bones Immobilize. Do not move the patient unless he/
she is in a position which exposes them to
immediate danger. Obtain expert help
has open wounds After washing your hands, if possible cover with
a dressing from the first-aid box. Seek appropriate
help
has thermal or chemical burns Immerse or flood copiously with cold water for
≥10 min
has minor injuries Ignore these if there are more serious ones

is poisoned Small amounts of water may be administered,
more if the poison is corrosive. Administer a
specific antidote if one exists. Do not induce
vomiting.
Cuts
All minor cuts should be cleaned thoroughly and covered with a suitable dressing. After controlling
bleeding, if there is a risk of a foreign body in the wound do not attempt to remove it, but cover
loosely and take patient to a doctor or hospital, as should be done if there is any doubt about the
severity of the wound.
Burns/scalds
Burns may arise from fire, hot objects/surfaces, radiant heat, very cold objects, electricity or
friction. Scalds may arise from steam, hot water, hot vapour or hot or super-heated liquids.
The affected area should be cooled by holding in cold, clean running water. Swelling is liable
to occur so jewellery or clothing likely to cause constriction must be removed. The area should
then be covered with a sterile dressing, care being taken to apply the dressing without it sticking to
the burned area. Blisters should not be pricked or damaged and cream or lotions should be avoided.
The patient may suffer from shock, in proportion to the extent of the injury. Give small drinks
and keep warm: do not overheat. In all cases, speed of treatment is crucial to limit the effects of
burns. Flowcharts which summarize the initial procedures for electrical, thermal and chemical
burns respectively are shown in Figure 13.5.
Chemical splashes, poisoning by ingestion
Refer to Table 13.8.
All cases of ingestion should be referred to a doctor and/or hospital without delay.
Antidotes
Effective antidotes for use in an emergency are not common. Examples include:
* Material Safety Data Sheets should accompany casualty in every case.
Chemical burns
Protect yourself with rubber gloves, etc.
Identify, but do not try to neutralize, the chemical
Remove casualty from danger

Wet chemicals
Dry chemicals
Carefully brush off chemical
Remove contaminated clothes, jewellery,
boots, etc.
Wash/shower all affected areas with
water for at least 10 minutes
Do not use ointments
Seek medical attention*
Work’s medical
centre
Own GP Hospital casualty
Thermal burns
Remove casualty from heat or cold
Wash/shower all affected areas with water for
at least 10 minutes
Minor –
simple burns
Major
• large, deep
• other injuries
Continue with cold
water until pain stops
Seek urgent
medical attention
Advise casualty to seek
medical attention
Work’s medical centre
Own GP Hospital casualty
Do not use

ointments
Turn off power or isolate casualty from current
Electrical burns
Treat for thermal burns – more than one
burn site may be present
Always refer for immediate medical assessment
Work’s medical centre
Hospital casualty
Figure 13.5
Initial procedures for dealing with burn injuries
(a) (b)
(c)
FIRST AID 431
432 OPERATING PROCEDURES
• for cyanide poisoning. Intravenous injection of:
– 3% Sodium nitrite and 50% sodium thiosulphate.
– Cobalt EDTA.
• for HF on the skin. Application of magnesium oxide paste with injection of calcium gluconate
below the affected area.
• for splashes of phenols. Apply alcohol-soaked swabs.
Where there is a specific antidote suitable for emergency use it should be kept available and
appropriate personnel trained in its use. Specific training should be given to first-aiders over and
above their general training if they may need to administer oxygen or deal with incidents involving
hydrogen cyanide, hydrofluoric acid or other special risks.
Table 13.8 Standard first aid treatments for chemical exposure
Splashes on the skin Flood the splashed surface thoroughly with large quantities of running water for
≥10 min or until satisfied that no chemical remains in contact with the skin
Use soap to help remove splashes of solvents, solutions and chemicals known
to be insoluble in water
Remove all contaminated clothing, taking care not to contaminate yourself in

the process
If necessary, arrange for transport to hospital or refer for medical advice to
nearest doctor
Information to accompany the casualty:
Chemical involved
Details of treatment already given
(
Special procedures apply to certain chemicals, e.g. anhydrous hydrogen fluoride,
aqueous hydrofluoric acid, phenol and related compounds
)
Splashes in the eye Flood the eye thoroughly with large quantities of clean, cool water or sterile
liquid from a sealed container and continue for 10–15 min
Ensure that the water bathes the eyeball by gently prising open the eyelids and
keeping them apart until treatment is completed. Do not attempt to remove
anything that is embedded
All eye injuries from chemicals require medical advice. Apply an eye pad and
arrange transport to hospital
Information to accompany the casualty:
Chemical involved
Details of treatment already given
Inhalation of gas Remove the casualty from the danger area after first ensuring your own safety
Loosen clothing; administer oxygen if available
If the casualty is unconscious, place in the recovery position and watch to see
if breathing stops
If breathing has stopped, apply artificial respiration by the mouth-to-mouth
method; if no pulse is detectable, start cardiac compressions
If necessary, arrange transport to hospital
Information to accompany the casualty:
Gas involved
Details of treatment already given

(
Special procedures apply to certain chemicals, e.g. hydrogen cyanide)
Ingestion of poisonous chemical If the chemical has been confined to the mouth, give large quantities of water
as a mouthwash; ensure that the mouthwash is not swallowed
If the chemical has been swallowed, small amounts of water may be administered,
more if the chemical is corrosive; administer a specific antidote if one exists
Do not induce vomiting
Arrange transport to hospital
Information to accompany the casualty:
Chemical swallowed
Details of treatment already given
Estimate of quantity/concentration of chemical consumed
Records
Any injuries or cases of illness treated should be recorded. The minimum details are:
• Date, time and place of incident/treatment.
• Name and job of casualty.
• Details of injury/illness and of treatment.
• Subsequent movements of casualty (i.e. returned to work, sent home, sent to hospital, etc.).
• Name and signature of person providing treatment.
Personal protection
Because personal protection is limited to the user and the equipment must be worn for the
duration of the exposure to the hazard, it should generally be considered as a last line of defence.
Respiratory protection in particular should be restricted to hazardous situations of short duration
(e.g. emergencies, maintenance, or temporary arrangements while engineering control measures
are being introduced). Occasionally, personal protection may be the only practicable measure and
a legal requirement. If it is to be effective, its selection, correct use and condition are of paramount
importance. (Therefore within the UK the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations
1992 require the provision of suitable p.p.e. except where and to the extent that a risk to health
and safety is adequately controlled by other means. This has to be maintained, which covers:
replacement or cleaning and keeping in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good

repair.)
Respiratory protection
Recommendations for the selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment are
provided in the UK by BS 4275 1997 and BS EN 132. The two basic principles are:
• purification of the air breathed (respirator) or
• supply of oxygen from uncontaminated sources (breathing apparatus).
If the oxygen content of the contaminated air is deficient (refer to page 72), breathing apparatus
is essential. The degree of protection required is determined by the level of contamination, the
hygiene standard for the contaminant(s), the efficiency of any filter or adsorber available, and the
efficiency with which the facepiece of the device seals to the user’s face (this is reduced by
beards, spectacles etc.). The level of comfort and user acceptability are further considerations.
The nominal protection factor (NPF) describes the level of protection afforded by a specific
respirator:
NPF =
Concentration of contaminant in air
Concentration of contaminant inside facepiece
The British Standard also uses the Assigned Protection Factor, i.e. the level of respiratory protection
that can realistically be expected to be achieved in the workplace by 95% of adequately trained
and supervised workers, using a properly functioning and correctly fitted respiratory protective
device (see Table 13.9)
PERSONAL PROTECTION 433
434 OPERATING PROCEDURES
Table 13.9 Assigned Protection Factors for Respirators and Breathing Apparatus
Type APF (depending upon detailed
equipment specification
1 Filtering devices 4–40
Half or quarter mask and filter
Filtering half-mask without inhalation valves
Valved filtering half masks
Filtering half masks

Full face mask and filter
Power assisted filtering device with full, half or quarter masks
Power filtering device with helmet or hood
2 Breathing apparatus 10–2000
Light duty construction air line
Fresh air hose and compressed air line
Self contained
Gas masks (canister or cartridge mask)
Respirators for gases and vapours comprise a facepiece and a container filled with a specific
adsorbent for the contaminant. Care must be taken to select the correct type. More than one
canister can be attached.
The useful life of a canister should be estimated based on the probable concentration of
contaminant, period of use, breathing rate and capacity of the canister.
Dust and fume masks
Dust and fume masks consist of one or two cartridges containing a suitable filter (e.g. paper or
resin-impregnated wool) to remove particulate contaminant. The efficiency of the filters against
particles of various sizes is quoted in manufacturers’ literature and national standards. Such
masks do not remove vapour from the air.
Facepiece fit is the limiting factor on the degree of protection afforded. Efficiency tends to
increase with use, i.e. as the filter becomes loaded, but the resistance to breathing also increases.
‘Paper cup’ type masks are also available.
Powered dust masks
Masks are available with battery-powered filter packs which supply filtered air to a facepiece
from a haversack filter unit. Another type comprises a protective helmet incorporating an electrically
operated fan and filter unit complete with face vizor and provision for ear muffs.
Breathing apparatus
Compressed airline system: a facepiece or hood is connected to a filter box and hand-operated
regulator valve which is provided with a safety device to prevent accidental complete closure.
Full respiratory, eye and facial protection is provided by full-facepiece versions. The compressed
air is supplied from a compressor through a manifold or from cylinders.

Self-contained breathing apparatus is available in three types:
• Open-circuit compressed air.
• Open-circuit oxygen-cylinder, liquid or solid-state generation.
• Regenerative oxygen.
All respiratory protective systems should be stored in clean, dry conditions but be readily accessible.
They should be inspected and cleaned regularly, with particular attention to facepiece seals, non-
return valves, harnesses etc. Issue on a personal basis is essential for regular use; otherwise the
equipment should be returned to a central position. Records are required of location, date of issue,
estimated duration of use of canisters etc.
Guidance on the choice of respiratory protection for selected environments is given in Figure
13.6. All persons liable to use such protection should be fully trained; this should cover details of
hazards, limitations of apparatus, inspection, proper fitting of facepiece, testing, cleaning etc.
Toxic
Low
toxicity
Environment
Confined spaces e.g. tanks, stills
Allowing unrestricted
movement
Allowing limited
movement
DG G
HAZARDS
All hazards All hazards
CBAABA
APPARATUS
CRHDR HDH CBA PDR PPD GDR
CAR or
CBA
CR

CPF or
CBA
Low
toxicity
Toxic
Low
toxicity
Toxic
Normal working conditions
Allowing unrestricted
movement
DG D G OD D OD
Figure 13.6
Guide to the selection of respiratory protection
Hazards Equipment
D Dust ABA Air line breathing apparatus
G Gas CAR Canister respirator
DG Dust and gas CBA Self-contained breathing apparatus
OD Oxygen deficiency CPF Canister respirators with particulate filters
CR Cartridge respirator
GDR General purpose dust respirators
HDH High efficiency dust respirators
HDR Positive pressure direct dust hoods and blouses (high efficiency)
PDR Positive pressure powered dust respirators
PPD Positive pressure powered dust hood and blouses
Eye protection
The common-sense approach to the use of eye protection, includes:
• Eye protectors and/or fixed shields provided according to the nature of the process.
• Eye protectors on personal issue.
• Replacement of lost, defective or unsuitable eye protectors.

• Eye protectors suitable for individual needs.
• Eye protectors and shields that conform to an appropriate, approved specification and are
marked to indicate intended use.
PERSONAL PROTECTION 435
436 OPERATING PROCEDURES
There are also requirements relating to the proper use and care of eye protectors/shields.
The normal range of personal eye protection is summarized in Table 13.10. In the UK the
appropriate standard is BS EN 167, 168, 175 and BS 7028. Fixed shields can be of polycarbonate
plastic to guard against splashing and projectiles, or of toughened glass or Perspex for protection
against splashing only. Wrap-around of the hazard is required. If the need for access behind a
shield cannot be eliminated personal protection is still necessary.
Table 13.10 Normal range of personal eye protection
Safety spectacles A variety of styles and colours are available with different side-shields to protect
against lateral hazards
Attention must be given to both the lens (available toughened/tinted/to personal
prescription for wearers requiring corrected vision) and the frame
Cup and wide-vision goggles Tend to be more versatile and cheaper and offer more protection and, according
to design, can protect against fine dust, fumes, liquid splashes and impact
from flying particles
Tend to be less comfortable than safety glasses and usually cannot be worn over
ordinary spectacles
Often mist up and as a rule are not fitted with prescription lenses
Face shields Intended to protect from the forehead to the neck
Some are attached to headgear and equipped with a chin-guard to prevent upward
splashing of acids/alkalis
The transparent screen is commonly made of polycarbonate
Heavier special versions are available, e.g. for welding
Head protection
Head protection is required against falling objects but also serves against heat, chemical splashes,
or entanglement of hair in machinery. The appropriate standard is BS EN 397 (1995).

Common-sense guidelines can be deduced from the requirements for ‘building operations’ and
‘works of engineering construction’ summarized in Table 13.11. In special situations, e.g. for fire-
fighting or protection against toxic chemicals, hoods and suits cover the head and neck and many
incorporate protection.
Table 13.11 Head protection requirements for construction activities (Construction (Head protection) Regulations
1989)
Provision, maintenance and replacement whenever necessary
Regular checking/replacement
Protection to be adequate, e.g. to BS EN 397 or equivalent standard (Type 1 helmets with comfort options strongly recommeded)
Protection to be compatible with the work/activity of the wearer
Protection to be worn at all times unless there is no risk from falling objects or possibility of hitting the head against
something
Wearing of safety helmets to be ensured
Hand protection
Protection of the hands may rely upon gloves or barrier creams. The choice of gloves depends
upon:
• Hazard to be protected against, e.g. corrosive or irritant chemicals, heat, abrasion.
• Degree of resistance required.
• Sensitivity required.
• Area to be protected, e.g. to wrist level or extending over the forearms.
For applications where surgical gloves provide adequate protection, if these are of natural
rubber latex then powder-free gloves with low/undetectable protein and allergen levels are advisable.
(Alternatively the use of nitrile gloves eliminates the risk of latex allergy.)
General advice on the suitability and degree of resistance of glove materials are summarized
in Table 13.12. In all cases, however, in addition to the necessary mechanical properties (i.e.
resistance to abrasion, blade cut resistance, tear resistance and puncture resistance rated according
to European Standard EN 388), consideration should be given to the resistance to the specific
chemicals involved.
Chemical permeation is rated in tests under EN 374-3. The breakthrough time of a chemical
through a glove is quoted as a permeation index:

Breakthrough time (min)
Greater than 10 30 60 120 240 480
Permeation index 1 2 3 4 5 6
If the time <10 minutes the index is 0. Clearly the greater the index the better the resistance to
permeation.
Some glove suppliers also provide data on, or a noting of, degradation, i.e. the physical effects
which a chemical will have upon a particular glove material.
Resistance to penetration by micro-organisms is covered by EN 374-2 and protection from low
temperatures in EN 511. Careful handling and regular inspection are essential since chemicals
and abrasion will eventually cause deterioration of gloves. Rinsing in clean water and drying
naturally will prolong their life.
Barrier creams are applied before work to provide a protective film. A different type of cream,
cleansing cream, is applied after work to aid dirt removal and to condition skin with humectant.
Limitations of barrier creams
• They may become a reservoir for harmful chemicals.
• Water-soluble preparations should not be used for aqueous situations; water-repellant creams
are available for such applications.
• There is a limit to the quantity of chemical a barrier cream can repel.
• Effectiveness diminishes as a result of abrasion and massage.
• They are unlikely to prevent an allergic contact dermatitis.
Protective clothing
Protective clothing includes overalls, bibs, duffle coats, aprons, complete one-piece suits with
hoods, spats, armlets etc. It is chosen for protection against mechanical hazards, abrasion,
extremes of temperature etc. as well as chemicals. The nature of the hazard and user comfort
dictate the choice. The properties of a range of protective clothing materials are listed in Table
13.13. Further guidance on selection, use and maintenance of chemical protective clothing is
given in BS 7184:1989.
PERSONAL PROTECTION 437
438 OPERATING PROCEDURES
Table 13.12 Glove material resistance rating (courtesy James North & Sons Ltd)

Glove material
Chemical Natural rubber Neoprene Nitrile Normal PVC High grade PVC
Organic acids
Acetic acid E E E E E
Citric acid E E E E E
Formic acid E E E E E
Lactic acid E E E E E
Lauric acid E E E E E
Maleic acid E E E E E
Oleic acid E E E E E
Oxalic acid E E E E E
Palmitic acid E E E E E
Phenol E E G E E
Propionic acid E E E E E
Stearic acid E E E E E
Tannic acid E E E E E
Inorganic acids
Arsenic acid G G G E E
Carbonic acid G G G E E
Chromic acid (up to 50%) G F F E
(1)
G
Fluorosilicic acid G G G E G
Hydrochloric acid (up to 40%) G G G E G
Hydrofluoric acid G G G E
(1)
G
Hydrogen sulphide (acid) F F G E E
Hydrogen peroxide G G G E E
Nitric acid (up to 50%) NR NR NR G

(1)
F
(1)
Perchloric acid F G F E
(1)
G
Phosphoric acid G G G E G
Sulphuric acid (up to 50%) G G F E
(1)
G
Sulphurous acid G G G E E
Saturated salt solutions
Ammonium acetate E E E E E
Ammonium carbonate E E E E E
Ammonium lactate E E E E E
Ammonium nitrate E E E E E
Ammonium nitrite E E E E E
Ammonium phosphate E E E E E
Calcium hypochlorite NR G G E E
Ferric chloride E E E E E
Magnesium chloride E E E E E
Mercuric chloride G G G E E
Potassium chromate E E E E E
Potassium cyanide E E E E E
Potassium dichromate E E E E E
Potassium halides E E E E E
Potassium permanganate E E E E E
Sodium carbonate E E E E E
Sodium chloride E E E E E
Sodium hypochlorite NR F F E E

Sodium nitrate E E E E E
Solutions of copper salts G G G E E
Stannous chloride E E E E E
Zinc chloride E E E E E
Alkalis
Ammonium hydroxide E E E E E
Calcium hydroxide E E E E E
Potassium hydroxide E G G E E
Sodium hydroxide E G G E E
Aliphatic hydrocarbons
Hydraulic oil F G F G E
Paraffins F G E G E
Petroleum ether F G E F G
Pine oil G G E G E
Aromatic hydrocarbons
(2)
Benzene NR F G F G
Naphtha NR F F F G
Naphthalene G G E G E
Toluene NR F G F G
Turpentine F G R F G
Xylene NR F G F G
(1)
Halogenated hydrocarbons
(2)
Benzyl chloride F F G F G
Carbon tetrachloride F F G F G
Chloroform F F G F G
Ethylene dichloride F F G F G
Methylene chloride F F G F G

Perchloroethylene F F G F G
Trichloroethylene F F G F G
Esters
Amyl acetate F G G F G
Butyl acetate F G G F G
Ethyl acetate F G G F G
Ethyl butyrate F G G F G
Methyl butyrate F G G F G
Ethers
Diethyl ether F G E F G
Aldehydes
Acetaldehyde G E E E E
Benzaldehyde F F E G E
Formaldehyde G E E E E
Ketones
Acetone G G G F G
Diethyl ketone G G G F G
Methyl ethyl ketone G G G F G
Alcohols
Amyl alcohol E E E E E
Butyl alcohol E E E E E
Ethyl alcohol E E E E E
Ethylene glycol G G E E E
Glycerol G G E E E
Isopropyl alcohol E E E E E
Methyl alcohol E E E E E
Amines
Aniline F G E E E
Butylamine G G E E E
Ethylamine G G E E E

Ethylaniline F G E E E
Methylamine G G E E E
Methylaniline F G E E E
Triethanolamine G E E E E
Table 13.12 Cont’d
Glove material
Chemical Natural rubber Neoprene Nitrile Normal PVC High grade PVC
PERSONAL PROTECTION 439
440 OPERATING PROCEDURES
Miscellaneous
Animal fats F G G G E
Bleaches NR G G G E
Carbon disulphide NR F G F G
Degreasing solution F F G F G
Diesel fuel NR F G F E
Hydraulic fluids F G G G E
Mineral oils F G E G E
Ozone F E G E E
Paint and varnish removers F G G F G
Petrol NR G G F G
Photographic solutions G E E G E
Plasticizers F G E G E
Printing inks G G E G E
Refrigerant solutions G G E F G
Resin oil F G G G E
Vegetable oils F G G G E
Weed killers G E E G E
White spirit F G G F G
Wood preservatives NR G G F G
E Excellent

F Fair
G Good
NR Not recommended
(1)
Resistance not absolute, but the best available.
(2)
Aromatic and halogenated hydrocarbons will attack all types of natural and synthetic gloves. Should swelling occur, switch
to another pair, allowing the swollen gloves to dry and return to normal.
Impervious clothing is essential when handling corrosive chemicals, liquids liable to cause
dermatitis, or chemicals toxic by skin absorption.
All protective clothing should be maintained in a sound condition, cleaned/washed/replaced
regularly as appropriate, and be stored apart from everyday clothing. With toxic chemicals a
double locker system is advisable. With highly toxic substances, e.g. lead compounds or asbestos-
based substances, separate storage of personal clothing and protective clothing is specifically required.
Protective footwear
Protective footwear includes shoes, boots with steel toecaps, full boots, e.g. Wellingtons. The
choice of material determines durability, acid resistance, oil resistance, heat resistance, non-slip
characteristics, impact resistance etc.
Washing facilities
Wherever chemicals are handled, adequate washing facilities are required conveniently situated
with respect to the workplace. These comprise wash-basins or troughs with a constant supply of
hot and cold or warm water; soap or liquid hand cleanser; clean towels or hot-air driers or
disposable paper towels. Typical minimum standards are:
Normal work One wash-basin per 10 workers
Handling toxic or irritant chemicals One wash-basin per 5 workers
Table 13.12 Cont’d
Glove material
Chemical Natural rubber Neoprene Nitrile Normal PVC High grade PVC
Table 13.13 Properties of protective clothing materials
Material Advantages Disadvantages

Cotton Lightweight, reasonably Liable to shrinkage unless Suitable for under-gloves
hard-wearing, no static treated
generation More flammable than wool
Resists penetration of direct Vulnerable to hot splashes
splashes of corrosive
Unaffected by oils
Wool Resists rapid penetration of Not resistant to hot splashes
direct splashes (more Takes up water and dirt
effective than cotton) Difficult to wash
Resists penetration of dust
High absorption and porosity
absorbs perspiration
Artificial fibres Hardwearing Not resistant to hot splashes Ceramic coating of fibres
(nylon, Terylene) Terylene has good acid High initial cost can render dust-proof
resistance Can allow dust to pass through
Static electricity can cause
rapid soiling
PVC Impervious Not resistant to hot splashes Used alone or
Non-flammable Causes sweating unless impregnated on fabric
Chemically and well ventilated For gloves armlets, hats,
biologically resistant bibs, spats, suits
Abrasion resistant
Paper Hygienic (disposable) Liable to wetting if not Possibly used for
Fairly resistant to chemicals treated with polythene disposable underwear
if treated with polythene film or for clothing for
film No strength visitors
Flammable Used under headgear
Not resistant to hot splashes (disposable)
Polythene Hygienic Low abrasion resistance Suitable for disposable
May be disposable Not resistant to hot splashes gloves or headgear

Impervious Low melting point could
cause adhesion to skin
In some circumstances, where clothing has to be changed, bathing facilities, e.g. showers, are
required. The provision of suitable and sufficient washing facilities and showers, if required by
the nature of the work, at readily accessible places is required in the UK under Reg. 21 of the
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. Specific needs are also covered in
other legislation, e.g. the Control of Lead at Work Regulations, and the Control of Asbestos at
Work Regulations 1987 (as amended 1998).
Facilities for rest and food
Rest facilities should be provided in readily accessible places. To avoid contamination of food, or
accidental ingestion of chemicals, these should include facilities to eat meals in a separate location.
Medical screening
The medical background of workers must be considered for work involving certain chemicals,
e.g. radioactive substances, sensitizers. (Refer to Chapter 5.)
MEDICAL SCREENING 441
442 OPERATING PROCEDURES
Monitoring standards
Management must institute procedures to assess levels of compliance with agreed standards for
safety. Techniques include environmental and/or biological monitoring, health surveillance, safety
audits, safety inspections, and procedures for accident reporting, investigation and analysis.
Communication is essential, e.g. by provision of information (on specific chemicals, processes,
etc.), safety meetings, notices, safety bulletins etc.
Training
Education, training and supervision are essential for the safe handling of chemicals. Training
requirements vary according to position within the organization, and hence responsibility.
Topics should embrace a knowledge of the hazards and precautions, including the use and
maintenance of protective devices including personal protection, under both normal and abnormal
operating conditions including emergencies.
14
Marketing

Chemicals vary from commodity substances in bulk to household cleaning products in small
packages. Mixtures of chemicals, such as formulated products, are usually termed ‘preparations’
which constitute 95% of commercially-available dangerous chemicals. Manufacturers, suppliers
and importers of all chemicals have a legal obligation to ensure that their products are fit for use,
properly packed, labelled and transported, and to provide the user with information on the hazards
and precautions to ensure they can be used safely and without harm to the environment. (See
Table 14.1 for UK legislation.) The hazards of dangerous substances, as opposed to dangerous
preparations, must also appear in advertisements for those chemicals.
Important aspects of classification labelling and packaging chemicals are regulated in the UK
by the Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 1994 (‘CHIP’).
These are applicable to any substance dangerous for supply excluding specific categories, e.g.
cosmetic products, controlled drugs, foods, medicines and medical products, munitions, wastes,
radioactive substances.
Classification
If a chemical is hazardous it is first classified into an appropriate category of danger to assist in
the provision of the correct information and packaging.
This can be done by:
• use of the classification given to it by the supplier. (A check is necessary that the classification
is accurate and also that processing has not invalidated it);
• use of an Approved Supply List from the UK Health and Safety Executive which covers most
chemicals but not mixtures; or
• classification by reference to relevant information.
A list of danger categories is given in Table 14.2. Note that chemicals may possess several
hazards, e.g. nitric acid is classed as both an oxidizer and a corrosive. If a chemical is not in one
of these categories it is not generally considered to be dangerous. If the hazards of a new chemical
have not been established it should be labelled ‘Caution – substance not yet fully tested’. Mixtures
can be classified either from results from tests on the preparation, or by calculation to predict the
health effects of the product based on the properties of individual components and their concentration
in the mixture. Preparations need to be classified for both physico-chemical and health effects
but, to date, not for environmental effects.

Under CHIP there is a requirement for suppliers to exercise all due diligence in classifying a
444 MARKETING
Table 14.1 Legislation affecting the classification, packaging, labelling and carriage of dangerous substances in Great
Britain (including their movement in harbours and harbour areas)
The Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply)
Regulations 1994 as amended
The Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road Regulations
1996
The Carriage of Dangerous Goods (Classification,
Packaging and Labelling) and Use of Transportable
Pressure Receptacles Regulations 1996
The Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (Driver
Training) Regulations 1996
The Carriage of Explosives by Road Regulations 1996
The Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail Regulations
1996
The Packaging, Labelling and Carriage of Radioactive
Materials by Rail Regulations 1996
Radioactive Material (Road Transport) (Great Britain)
Regulations 1996
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (Application
to Environmentally Hazardous Substances) Regulations
1996 as amended
The Ionizing Radiations Regulations 1999
The Dangerous Substances in Harbour Areas Regulations
1987 (‘DSHA’)
Control the classification, provision of labels and safety data
sheets, and safe packaging of chemicals by supplier.
Covers the mode of dispatch of dangerous goods by road
including bulk and tanker transport; suitability of containers

and vehicles; examination and testing; information
requirements; loading and unloading; procedures for
emergencies and parking; exemptions.
Governs the classification of dangerous goods; consignment
in packages and their markings/labelling; the design,
manufacture, modification and repair of transportable
pressure receptacles and their approval and certification,
marking and filling; the role of approved persons and the
need for records.
Addresses the instruction, training and certification of drivers
of road vehicles used for the carriage of dangerous goods.
Scope includes mode of transport in both passenger vehicles
and bulk carriage; suitability of vehicle and container;
approval; quantity limits; mixed loads; information and
documentation; safety and security during carriage;
equipment; precautions against fire and explosion and in
the event of accidents and emergencies; age limits for
those engaged in the carriage.
Governs the transport of dangerous goods by rail in small
containers, large containers, tanks and wagons. Covers
classification of dangerous goods; suitability, examination
and testing of container; information including labelling.
Also included is training and instruction; loading and
unloading; marshalling; prohibition of overfilling, mixed
loads and temperature-controlled substances; security and
emergency procedures and special requirements for
carriage of explosives.
Covers package design, approval, test procedures, notification
of consignment, information requirements (for package
and transport container).

Includes radiation limits, prior approval, QA programmes,
testing procedures, information/documentation
requirements, and marking/labelling/placarding.
Extends the scope of Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
to include environmentally-hazardous substances including
transportation of such dangerous goods and the control
of volatile organic carbon emissions from storage and
distribution of petrol.
Apply to all work activities with radioactive materials, including
transport. The main provisions relevant to transport are
those relating to driver training and the need, under some
circumstances, to prepare contingency plans for
emergencies and enforced stoppages.
Control the carriage, loading, unloading and storage of all
classes of dangerous substances, including explosives, in
all harbours and harbour areas in Great Britain. Movement
of dangerous substances by road, rail and sea is covered.
substance. Checks which may be required if reliance is placed on classification by a manufacturer
are:
• reference to the Approved Supply List;
• use of experience about the reliability and experience of the supplier;
• use of common sense and experience;
• comparison with similar substances or preparations;
• comparison with any classification for carriage;
• enquiries with the supplier or other competent persons;
• checking with information in reference textbooks.
Packaging
A hazardous chemical must be supplied/conveyed in a package (drum, keg, cylinder, bottle, etc.)
suitable for the purpose. In particular:
• The receptacle and any associated packaging must be designed, constructed, maintained and

closed so as to prevent the escape of any of the contents of the receptacle when subjected to the
stresses and strains of normal handling. A suitable safety device (e.g. pressure relief valve) may
be fitted.
• The receptacle and any associated packagings (in so far as they are likely to come into contact
with the dangerous substance) must be made of materials (a) which are not liable to be
adversely affected by the substance, and (b) which are not liable to react with the substance to
form any other dangerous substance.
• Where the receptacle is fitted with a replaceable closure, the closure must be designed so that
the receptacle can be repeatedly reclosed without the contents escaping.
• The packaging of certain dangerous chemicals (e.g. those labelled ‘toxic’, ‘very toxic’ or
‘corrosive’ must be fitted with child-resistant closures, or tactile danger warnings (for the
blind) if sold to the public.
Suppliers should perform a hazard analysis on each product. For example, aerosols can pose fire,
explosion or inhalation risk. Basic precautions with an aerosol dispenser are:
• Assume that the aerosol contains a liquid of flammability equivalent to that of petrol and treat
it as such.
• Do not use an aerosol spray when smoking, or near any other source of ignition, e.g. an electric
fire, hot-plate, open-flame heater or boiler etc.
• Do not throw used aerosol dispensers onto bonfires.
• Do not let young children have access to aerosol dispensers, full or empty.
Table 14.1 Cont’d
Require that explosives shall not be transported unless they
have been classified by the classifying authority (i.e. the
HSE, and the MOD for military explosives, in the UK)
(except for journeys made specifically for classification
and then only under certain conditions).
The Classification and Labelling of Explosives Regulations
1983 (‘CLER’)
PACKAGING 445
446 MARKETING

Table 14.2 Indication of dangers with chemical products
Category of danger Indication of Symbol Symbol
danger letter
Physico-chemical Explosive Explosive E
Oxidizing Oxidizing O
Extremely Extremely
F+
flammable flammable
Highly flammable Highly flammable F
Flammable Flammable –
Health Very toxic Very toxic T+
Toxic Toxic T
Harmful Harmful Xn
Corrosive Corrosive C
Irritant Irritant Xi
Harmful Xn
Sensitizing
Irritant Xi
Carcinogenic Toxic T
Categories 1 and 2
Category 3 Harmful Xn
Mutagenic Toxic T
Categories 1 and 2
Category 3 Harmful Xn
Toxic for
reproduction Toxic T
Categories 1 and 2
Category 3 Harmful Xn
Environmental Dangerous for the Dangerous for the N
environment environment

EXPLOSIVE
It is the responsibility of the supplier to draw these precautions to the attention of the user in the
best way practicable.
Labelling
If a dangerous chemical is supplied in a package then the package must be labelled. Clearly this
is not practical if the chemical is delivered in bulk or via a pipeline.
The elements of a label are:
• Full name and address and phone number of supplier.
• Chemical name or, if a preparation, the trade name.
• Indication of danger and associated symbol.
• Risk and safety phrases.
Requirements for labelling of containers for supply may differ from those for conveyance. Key
features of a supply label are to identify the substance (the chemical name in most cases) and any
hazards and safety precautions. Supply labels are black on yellow/orange. In Europe the classification,
packaging and labelling of dangerous substances is covered by Directive 67/548/EEC as amended.
This requires labels to identify appropriate risk and safety phrases (Tables 14.3 and 14.4) depending
upon product properties. A substance is considered dangerous if in Part 1A of an approved list or
if it exhibits hazardous properties as defined in Schedule 1 for supply, or Schedule 2 for conveyance
as shown in Tables 14.5 and 14.6. Substances not tested should be labelled ‘Caution – substance
not yet fully tested’. Criteria for risk phrases are provided, e.g. as in Table 14.7 for toxic compounds.
Explosive chemicals tend to be governed by separate legislation, e.g., in the UK, The Classification
and Labelling of Explosives Regulations 1983. These require the HSE to classify any explosive
before it may be supplied. Under the scheme, explosives are labelled according to a classification
based on hazard division (Table 14.8), and on compatibility (Table 14.9), which takes into account
their sensitivity, explosivity and chemical nature. Labels are diamond shaped: the top half is
reserved for the pictograph and division number, the bottom half shows the hazard code and the
classification number. Figure 14.1 shows the label for Class 1, Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3 explosive.
Figure 14.1
Example of label for explosive (Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3)
LABELLING 447

448 MARKETING
Table 14.3 ‘Risk’ phrases from the Approved List
1. Explosive when dry
2. Risk of explosion by shock, friction, fire or other sources of ignition
3. Extreme risk of explosion by shock, friction, fire or other sources of ignition
4. Forms very sensitive explosive metallic compounds
5. Heating may cause an explosion
6. Explosive with or without contact with air
7. May cause fire
8. Contact with combustible material may cause fire
9. Explosive when mixed with combustible material
10. Flammable
11. Highly flammable
12. Extremely flammable
13. Extremely flammable liquefied gas
14. Reacts violently with water
15. Contact with water liberates extremely flammable gases
16. Explosive when mixed with oxidizing substances
17. Spontaneously flammable in air
18. In use, may form flammable/explosive vapour–air mixture
19. May form explosive peroxides
20. Harmful by inhalation
21. Harmful in contact with skin
22. Harmful if swallowed
23. Toxic by inhalation
24. Toxic in contact with skin
25. Toxic if swallowed
26. Very toxic by inhalation
27. Very toxic in contact with skin
28. Very toxic if swallowed

29. Contact with water liberates toxic gas
30. Can become highly flammable in use
31. Contact with acids liberates toxic gas
32. Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas
33. Danger of cumulative effects
34. Causes burns
35. Causes severe burns
36. Irritating to eyes
37. Irritating to respiratory system
38. Irritating to skin
39. Danger of very serious irreversible effects
40. Possible risk of irreversible effects
41. Risk of serious damage to eyes
42. May cause sensitization by inhalation
43. May cause sensitization by skin contact
44. Risk of explosion if heated under confinement
45. May cause cancer
46. May cause heritable genetic damage
47. May cause birth defects
48. Danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure
49. May cause cancer by inhalation
50. Very toxic to aquatic organisms
51. Toxic to aquatic organisms
52. Harmful to aquatic organisms
53. May cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment
54. Toxic to flora
55. Toxic to fauna
56. Toxic to soil organisms
57. Toxic to bees
58. May cause long-term adverse effects in the environment

59. Dangerous for the ozone layer
60. May impair fertility
61. May cause harm to the unborn child
62. Possible risk of impaired fertility
63. Possible risk of harm to the unborn child
64. May cause harm to breastfed babies
65. Harmful: may cause lung damage if swallowed
66. Repeat exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking
67. Vapours may cause drowsiness and dizziness
Examples of combination of particular risks
14/15 Reacts violently with water, liberating extremely flammable gases
15/29 Contact with water liberates toxic, extremely flammable gas
20/21 Harmful by inhalation and in contact with skin
20/21/22 Harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
20/22 Harmful by inhalation and if swallowed
21/22 Harmful in contact with skin and if swallowed
23/24 Toxic by inhalation and in contact with skin
23/24/25 Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin, and if swallowed
23/25 Toxic by inhalation and if swallowed
24/25 Toxic in contact with skin and if swallowed
26/27 Very toxic by inhalation and in contact with skin
26/27/28 Very toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
26/28 Very toxic by inhalation and if swallowed
27/28 Very toxic in contact with skin and if swallowed
36/37 Irritating to eyes and respiratory system
36/37/38 Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin
36/38 Irritating to eyes and skin
37/38 Irritating to respiratory system and skin
39/23 Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation
39/23/24 Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation and in contact with skin

39/23/24/25 Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
39/23/25 Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation, and if swallowed
39/24 Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects in contact with skin
39/24/25 Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects in contact with skin and if swallowed
39/25 Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects if swallowed
39/26 Very toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation
39/26/27 Very toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation and in contact with skin
39/26/27/28 Very toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
39/26/28 Very toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation and if swallowed
39/27 Very toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects in contact with skin
39/27/28 Very toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects in contact with skin and if swallowed
39/28 Very toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects if swallowed
40/20 Harmful: possible risk of irreversible effects through inhalation
40/20/21 Harmful: possible risk of irreversible effects through inhalation and in contact with skin
40/20/21/22 Harmful: possible risk of irreversible effects through inhalation in contact with skin and if swallowed
40/20/22 Harmful: possible risk of irreversible effects through inhalation and if swallowed
40/22 Harmful: possible risk of irreversible effects if swallowed
40/21 Harmful: possible risk of irreversible effects in contact with skin
40/21/22 Harmful: possible risk of irreversible effects in contact with skin and if swallowed
42/43 May cause sensitization by inhalation and skin contact
48/20 Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation
48/20/21 Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and in contact with
skin
48/20/21/22 Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation in contact with skin
and if swallowed
48/20/22 Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and if swallowed
48/21 Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin
48/21/22 Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin and if swallowed
48/22 Harmful: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure if swallowed
48/23 Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation

Table 14.3 Cont’d
LABELLING 449
450 MARKETING
48/23/24 Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and in contact with skin
48/23/24/25 Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation, in contact with skin and
if swallowed
48/23/25 Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure through inhalation and if swallowed
48/24 Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin
48/24/25 Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure in contact with skin and if swallowed
48/25 Toxic: danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure if swallowed
50/53 Very toxic to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment
51/53 Toxic to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment
52/53 Harmful to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment
Table 14.4 ‘Safety’ phrases from the Approved List
1. Keep locked up
2. Keep out of reach of children
3. Keep in a cool place
4. Keep away from living quarters
5. Keep contents under . . . (appropropriate liquid to be specified by the manufacturer)
6. Keep under . . . (inert gas to be specified by the manufacturer)
7. Keep container tightly closed
8. Keep container dry
9. Keep container in a well-ventilated place
12. Do not keep the container sealed
13. Keep away from food, drink and animal feeding stuffs
14. Keep away from . . . (incompatible materials to be indicated by the manufacturer)
15. Keep away from heat
16. Keep away from sources of ignition – No Smoking
17. Keep away from combustible material
18. Handle and open container with care

20. When using do not eat or drink
21. When using do not smoke
22. Do not breathe dust
23. Do not breathe gas/fumes/vapour/spray (appropriate wording to be specified by manufacturer)
24. Avoid contact with skin
25. Avoid contact with eyes
26. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
27. Take off immediately all contaminated clothing
28. After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of . . . (to be specified by the manufacturer)
29. Do not empty into drains
30. Never add water to this product
33. Take precautionary measures against static discharges
35. This material and its container must be disposed of in a safe way
36. Wear suitable protective clothing
37. Wear suitable gloves
38. In case of insufficient ventilation, wear suitable respiratory equipment
39. Wear eye/face protection
40. To clean the floor and all objects contaminated by this material use . . . (to be specified by the manufacturer)
41. In case of fire and/or explosion do not breathe fumes
42. During fumigation/spraying wear suitable respiratory equipment (appropriate wording to be specified by the
manufacturers)
43. In case of fire, use . . . (indicate in the space the precise type of fire-fighting equipment. If water increases the risk,
add – Never use water)
45. In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show the label where possible)
46. If swallowed seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label
47. Keep at temperature not exceeding . . . °C (to be specified by the manufacturer)
48. Keep wetted with . . . (appropriate material to be specified by the manufacturer)
49. Keep only in the original container
50. Do not mix with . . . (to be specified by the manufacturer)
51. Use only in well-ventilated areas

Table 14.3 Cont’d
52. Not recommended for interior use on large surface areas
53. Avoid exposure – obtain special instructions before use
56. Dispose of this material and its container to hazardous or special waste collection point
57. Use appropriate containment to avoid environmental contamination
59. Refer to manufacturer/supplier for information on recovery/recycling
60. This material and/or its container must be disposed of as hazardous waste
61. Avoid release to the environment. Refer to special instructions/safety data sheet
62. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting: seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label
63. In case of accident by inhalation: remove casualty to fresh air and keep at rest
64. If swallowed, rinse mouth with water (only if the person is conscious)
Table 14.4 Cont’d
Information
Suppliers must also provide the customer with more detailed information on the hazards and
safety precautions of their products. If the chemicals are to be used in connection with work this
is usually in a Material Safety Data Sheet. Relevant information from Table 1.10 should be
included and at least cover that listed in Table 14.10.
The information must be provided under the headings shown in Table 14.11 and enable the user
to determine the precautions required when using the chemical.
Where necessary the manufacturer must carry out, or arrange for, safety testing. Many countries
operate mandatory premanufacturing and premarketing notification schemes of which safety
testing is the cornerstone. Within the European Community under Directive 67/548/EEC and its
sixth amendment 79/831/EEC, Competent Authorities must be notified before new substances are
supplied in the marketplace. In the UK this Directive is enacted by the Notification of New
Substances Regulations 1993 (NONS). Exempt are:
• Substances listed on the European Inventory of Existing Chemical Substances (EINECS).
• Medicinal products.
INFORMATION 451
Examples of combination of safety precautions
1/2 Keep locked up and out of the reach of children

3/9/14 Keep in a cool well-ventilated place away from [incompatible materials to be indicated by
manufacturer]
3/9/14/49 Keep only in the original container in a cool well-ventilated place away from [incompatible
materials to be indicated by manufacturer]
3/9/49 Keep only in the original container in a cool well-ventilated place
3/14 Keep in a cool place away from [incompatible materials to be indicated by the manufacturer]
7/8 Keep container tightly closed and dry
7/9 Keep container tightly closed and in a well-ventilated place
7/47 Keep container tightly closed and at a temperature not exceeding [ ]
o
C [to be specified by
manufacturer]
20/21 When using do not eat, drink or smoke
24/25 Avoid contact with skin and eyes
29/56 Do not empty into drains, dispose of this material and its container to hazardous or special waste
collection point
36/37 Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves
37/38/39 Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection
36/39 Wear suitable protective clothing and eye/face protection
37/39 Wear suitable gloves and eye/face protection
47/49 Keep only in the original container at temperature not exceeding [ ]
o
C [to be specified by
manufacturer]
452 MARKETING
Table 14.5 Classification of and symbols for substances dangerous for supply (Schedule 1 Part I)
Characteristic properties Classification and Symbol
of the substance indication of general
nature of risk
A substance which may explode under the effect of flame or which Explosive

is more sensitive to shocks or friction than dinitrobenzene.
A substance which gives rise to highly exothermic reaction when in Oxidizing
contact with other substances, particularly flammable substances.
A liquid having a flash point <0°C and a boiling point ≤35°C. Extremely flammable
(1)
A substance which Highly flammable
(1)
(a) may become hot and finally catch fire in contact with air at
ambient temperature without any application of energy;
(b) is a solid and may readily catch fire after brief contact with a
source of ignition and which continues to burn or to be
consumed after removal of the source of ignition;
(c) is gaseous and flammable in air at normal pressure;
(d) in contact with water or damp air, evolves highly flammable
gases in dangerous quantities; or
(e) is a liquid having a flash point <21°C.
A substance which is a liquid having a flash point ≥21°C and Flammable
(1)
No symbol required
≤55°C, except a liquid which when tested at 55°C in the manner
described in Schedule 2 to the Highly Flammable Liquids and
Liquefied Petroleum Gases Regulations 1972 does not support
combustion.
A substance which if it is inhaled or ingested or it penetrates the Very toxic
(2)
skin, may involve extremely serious acute or chronic health risks
and even death.
A substance which if it is inhaled or ingested or it penetrates the Toxic
(2)
skin, may involve serious acute or chronic health risks and even

death.
A substance which if it is inhaled or ingested or it penetrates the Harmful
(2)
skin, may involve limited health risks.
A substance which may on contact with living tissues destroy them. Corrosive
A non-corrosive substance which, through immediate, prolonged or Irritant
repeated contact with the skin or mucous membrane, can cause
inflammation.
(1)
Preparations packed in aerosol dispensers shall be classified as flammable in accordance with Part III of this schedule.
(2)
Substances shall be classified as very toxic, toxic or harmful in accordance with the additional criteria set out in
Part II of this schedule.
Table 14.6 Classification of and hazard warning signs for substances dangerous for conveyance (Schedule 2 Part I)
Characteristic properties of the substance Classification Hazard warning sign
A substance which
(a) has a critical temperature <50°C or which at Non-flammable
50°C has a vapour pressure of more than 3 bar compressed gas
absolute and
(b) is conveyed by road at a pressure of more than
500 millibars above atmospheric pressure or
in liquefied form other than a toxic gas or a
flammable gas.
A substance which has a critical temperature <50°C Toxic gas
or which at 50°C has a vapour pressure of more
than 3 bar absolute and which is toxic.
A substance which has a critical temperature <50°C Flammable gas
(1)
or which at 50°C has a vapour pressure of more
than 3 bar absolute and is flammable.

A liquid with a flash point ≤55°C except a liquid Flammable liquid
(1,2)
which
(a) has a flash point ≥21°C and ≤55°C and
(b) when tested at 55°C in the manner described
in Schedule 2 to the Highly Flammable
Liquids and Liquefied Petroleum Gases
Regulations 1972 does not support
combustion.
A solid which is readily combustible under Flammable solid
conditions encountered in conveyance by road
or which may cause or contribute to fire through
friction.
A substance which is liable to spontaneous heating Spontaneously
under conditions encountered in conveyance by combustible
road or to heating in contact with air being then substance
liable to catch fire.
COMPRESSED GAS
TOXIC GAS
FLAMMABLE GAS
FLAMMABLE LIQUID
FLAMMABLE SOLID
SPONTANEOUSLY
COMBUSTIBLE
INFORMATION 453