10. Concepts in Chemistry: Hazards & Risks

Question 1

What is a Hazard and what are the 6 mains symbol meanings?

Answer 1

Anything with potential to cause harm or damage

6 symbols for hazards are :

Oxidising - provides oxygen - burns more fiercely e.g. oxygen

Environmental - harmful to organisms and environment e.g. mercury

Toxic - can cause death e.g. swallow breathe e.g. hydrogen cyanide

Harmful - irritation or blistering of the skin e.g. bleach

Highly flammable - catches fire easily e.g. petrol

Corrosive - destroys materials e.g. sulphuric acid

Question 2

What are the main risks and hazards for experiments?

Answer 2

Equipment used

Chemicals

Plan - identify hazards - how likely - how serious - how to reduce - risk assessment