How to Read Hazchem Signs

by K2K SIGNS

Hazchem signs identify hazardous chemicals and materials using symbols, text, and codes. They communicate risks, guide safe handling, and support emergency response.

Understanding Hazchem signs, including colour codes, Hazchem codes, and UN Numbers, is essential for safety and compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations and AS 1216.

    What is a UN Number?

    A UN Number (United Nations Number) is a four-digit code that identifies hazardous substances or articles during transport.

    • Issued by: United Nations Committee of Experts.
    • Purpose: Ensure proper identification, handling, and emergency response for dangerous goods.
    • Placement: Displayed on Hazchem signs, labels, and containers.

    How to Read Hazchem Signs

    1. Sulphur Dioxide Hazchem Sign

    Sulphur Dioxide Hazchem Sign
    • Hazard: Toxic gas
    • UN Number: 1079
    • Hazchem Code: 2RE
    • Symbol: Skull and crossbones

    How to Read:

    • UN 1079: Identifies the substance as Sulphur Dioxide, a toxic gas.
    • 2RE:
      • 2: Use a fine water spray for vapour suppression.
      • R: Indicates the substance is flammable and requires foam or dry extinguishers.
      • E: Evacuate people from the surrounding area during an emergency.
    • Symbol: Highlights toxicity and potential inhalation hazards.

    Usage: Found in industrial plants, chemical factories, and transport vehicles.

    2. Sodium Bisulphate Hazchem Sign

    Sodium Bisulphate Hazchem Sign
    • Hazard: Corrosive solid
    • UN Number: 3260
    • Hazchem Code: 2X
    • Symbol: Corrosion

    How to Read:

    • UN 3260: Identifies the material as Sodium Bisulphate, a corrosive solid.
    • 2X:
      • 2: A fine water spray is safe for handling spills.
      • X: Indicates no risk of hazardous water reaction.
    • Symbol: Warns of risks to skin, eyes, and materials.

    Usage: Used in chemical labs, storage rooms, and cleaning facilities.

    3. Argon Compressed Storage Panel Sign

    Argon Compressed Storage Panel Sign
    • Hazard: Compressed gas
    • UN Number: 1006
    • Hazchem Code: 2T
    • Symbol: Gas cylinder

    How to Read:

    • UN 1006: Identifies the substance as Argon, a non-toxic compressed gas.
    • 2T:
      • 2: A fine water spray is safe to cool the container in case of fire.
      • T: Indicates the use of breathing apparatus to handle leaks or fires.
    • Symbol: Warns about pressure risks and potential explosion.

    Usage: Found in welding shops, hospitals, and industrial facilities.

    4. Thermite Powder Hazchem Sign

    Thermite Powder Hazchem Sign
    • Hazard: Highly flammable solid
    • UN Number: 1325
    • Hazchem Code: 2Y
    • Symbol: Flame

    How to Read:

    • UN 1325: Identifies Thermite Powder as a highly flammable solid.
    • 2Y:
      • 2: A fine water spray can be used for fire suppression.
      • Y: Advises using breathing apparatus and handling with caution due to water-reactivity.
    • Symbol: Highlights fire risks due to high flammability.

    Usage: Found in manufacturing plants and specialised industrial environments.

    Where Should You Place Hazchem Signs?

    Place Hazchem signs in visible locations near hazardous materials:

    • On storage containers, drums, and tanks.
    • On transport vehicles carrying chemicals.
    • At entry points to chemical storage or work zones.
    • In laboratories, manufacturing plants, and warehouses.

    How Hazchem Signs Help Emergency Response?

    Hazchem signs provide critical information during emergencies. UN Numbers identify the substance, while Hazchem codes specify actions like using water sprays or dry extinguishers.

    Symbols indicate hazards such as toxicity, flammability, or gas leaks. This information allows emergency teams to respond quickly and safely.

    Australian Standards for Hazchem Signs

    Australian standards AS 1216 require Hazchem signs to:

    • Display correct symbols, Hazchem codes, and UN Numbers.
    • Use durable, weatherproof materials for outdoor areas.
    • Be placed where hazardous materials are present or transported.

    Conclusion

    Hazchem signs, including their UN Numbers and Hazchem codes, ensure safety when working with hazardous materials.

    Learning to read these signs helps businesses prevent accidents and comply with Australian regulations.

    For reliable Hazchem Signs call 03 8753 8666. Our compliant and durable signs help you maintain safety and legal standards.

    FAQs

    1. What does a UN Number mean on Hazchem signs?

    A UN Number is a four-digit code that identifies hazardous substances for safe handling and emergency response.

    2. Why are Hazchem codes important?

    Hazchem codes provide emergency instructions, including fire suppression methods and evacuation needs.

    3. How do I choose the correct Hazchem sign?

    Identify the chemical, check the UN Number, and select a compliant Hazchem sign that matches the hazard.

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