Lab Safety

Lab Safety definitions & WHMIS symbols

Flammable (flame)

Fire Hazard - Indicates a product can ignite and burn easily. Keep away from heat sources and open flames.

Oxidizer (flame over circle)

Oxidizing hazard - (speeds up a fire or makes the fire more intense) Keep away from flammable materials.

Gas under pressure (gas cylinder)

For gasses under pressure, contents could explode or release dangerous gases. Handle with care. Keep away from heat sources.

Corrosive (corrosion)

For corrosive damage to metals, as well as skin and eyes. Wear PPE (gloves, goggles) to protect your skin.

Explosive (exploding bomb)

For explosion or reactivity hazards. Keep away from heat, sudden impacts, contact with water.

Poisonous/Acute toxicity

The product can cause death or serious harm quickly if it’s inhaled, swallowed, or touches the skin.

Health Hazard

May cause or suspected of causing serious health effects (ex. Increase risk of cancer). Do not ingest or inhale.

Irritants and Sensitizers (exclamation mark)

May cause less serious health effects like eye or skin irritation or respiratory irritation. Do not ingest or inhale. Wear PPE to protect skin and eyes.

Environmental Damaging Materials

May cause damage to the aquatic environment. Do not pour down the drain.

Biohazardous Infectious Material

For organisms or toxins that can cause diseases in humans or animals (ex. Bacteria, Mosquitos). Wear PPE to prevent contact with skin, eyes and inhalation.

Octagon frame

Product is the hazard

Upside-down triangle frame

Container is the hazard

What does the symbol inside the frame mean?

The type of danger

What does WHMIS stand for?

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System

What is the purpose of WHMIS?

To identify hazardous materials and provide safety info for workers in Canada

What are the 3 parts of WHMIS?

Labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and WHMIS symbols

What does HHPS stand for?

Hazardous Household Product Symbols

What is the purpose of HHPS?

To warn about hazards in household products

What does MSDS stand for?

Material Safety Data Sheet

What is the purpose of MSDS?

To provide detailed information about the hazards of a chemical product and how to handle it safely

What does PPE stand for?

Personal Protective Equipment

Why is PPE important?

Protects you from exposure to hazards in labs or workplaces (e.g. goggles, gloves, lab coat, and mask)