Identifying Hazard Symbols
Hazard symbols are an important indication to how dangerous the gas is you are dealing with. Throughout the Hobbyweld range, we have 3 different types of gases: compressed, oxidising and flammable. Below we take a look at the pictogram (hazard symbols) for each type of gas as well as the hazard and precautionary statements correlating to each.
Compressed Gas
If you see this label, the gas:
Is contained under pressure.
May explode if exposed to heat.
Can cause rapid asphyxiation in high concentration.
Must be stored in a well-ventilated place.
You will see this label on all of our gases (with the exception of Acetylene).
Oxidising Gas
If you see this label, the gas:
Can cause or intensify fire.
Must be kept away from combustible materials.
Has to be stopped from leaking – if safe to do so.
Must be protected from oil and grease on valves and fittings.
Needs to be stored in a well-ventilated area.
You will see this label on Oxygen.
Flammable Gas
If you see this label, the gas:
Is extremely flammable.
Must be kept away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources.
There should be no smoking near the gas.
Can not be extinguished if leakage/fire occurs – unless the leakage can be stopped safely.
Must be stored in a well-ventilated place.
If there is a leakage, all ignition sources must be eliminated if it is safe to do so.
You will find this label on Acetylene.
Please always consult the safety data sheets and contact your local supplier and relevant authorities if necessary.
Article by Catherine McGowan | Visuals created by John Holmes