Chapter 05 · Standards & assuranceStandards, Labels & Certification Schemes

Corrosive (GHS)

Meaning statusEstablishedSource recordDirect document linkedWhy these are different

Definition

Under the UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), "corrosive" spans several hazard classes: skin corrosion (Category 1A/1B/1C, irreversible skin damage), serious eye damage (Category 1) and corrosive to metals (single Category 1, e.g. corroding steel or aluminium at more than 6.25 mm per year under test conditions). The corrosion pictogram depicts liquid corroding a hand and a surface.

References

University of Illinois DRSChemical hazard classification (GHS classes and categories)

hazard classes and categories

Lion TechnologyHow DOT and OSHA regulate corrosive materials

corrosive-to-metals criteria and regulatory citations

Overview

What it means

A standardised label language ensuring that a chemical's destructive effect on tissue or materials is communicated identically worldwide.

How it is used

Suppliers classify and label products; employers use the classifications in safety data sheets, workplace labels and chemical management; transport rules (DOT Class 8) run in parallel.

Why it matters

Harmonised corrosive classifications protect workers and downstream users and underpin chemicals management in sustainable procurement and safer-chemistry programmes.