Classification and Labeling of Commonly Used Dangerous Chemicals GB13690-92
Chemicals are widely used in a variety of industries and sciences, and the responsible use of such chemicals is of great importance for a number of reasons. The Chinese government is committed to helping people throughout the country to become informed about chemicals and the potential dangers they pose. To that end, The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of the Peoples Republic of China (AQSIQ) created the “GB13690-92 – Classification and Labeling of Commonly Used Dangerous Chemicals”.
The standard that was created by AQSIQ serves two important purposes. First, it outlines safety parameters and definitions related to dangerous chemicals. Secondly, it provides a labeling system to help people keep track of the dangerous chemicals and their associated hazards.
GB13690-92 covers information on nine different types of chemicals that are commonly considered dangerous. These include solvents, acids, bases, oxidizing agents, compressed gases, organic solvents, halogen compounds, aromatic hydrocarbons and aniline compounds. It also covers applicable physical characteristics of these substances, such as their flash point and their vapor pressure.
GB13690-92 also stipulates that any chemicals that are considered dangerous are required to have a visible warning label applied. This warning label will typically include the identifications of the specific chemical, as well as a description of the potential health and safety hazards posed by the chemical. It may also specify any protective equipment and/or protective clothing that should be worn when handling the chemical.
The symbology of the labels that are used for dangerous chemicals is also outlined in the standard. The label will often include a circle with a seven-pointed star inside of it, and a short phrase describing the hazard of the chemical. In extreme cases, there may be two stars instead of one, signifying an especially hazardous chemical that requires significant care when in use.
Other symbols that may be used to indicate potential dangers include an inverted triangle with an exclamation point inside of it and a flame symbol. Each of these symbols is also accompanied by a phrase describing the level of danger and/or the protective measures necessary to work with the chemical safely.
GB13690-92 also provides instructions on how to properly store and dispose of dangerous chemicals once they have been used. It is essential that any containers storing hazardous chemicals be properly labeled and maintained, to prevent injury due to contact with the chemicals. Likewise, it is essential that any leftover or unused chemicals be properly disposed of according to the instructions outlined in the standard.
Overall, the “GB13690-92 – Classification and Labeling of Commonly Used Dangerous Chemicals” is an essential tool when it comes to the responsible use of dangerous chemicals. By adhering to the protocols outlined in the standard, people can ensure that they remain safe in the presence of these hazardous compounds.
