The Corrosion pictogram (also called the Corrosive pictogram) is the one used to represent both physical and health hazards in the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for chemical labeling.

This universally recognized symbol—featuring two test tubes dripping liquid onto a metal hand and a flat surface, all within a red diamond border—signals substances that can cause irreversible damage through both physical means and direct harm to living tissue.

Why It Covers Both Hazard Types

GHS divides hazards into categories like physical (e.g., reactivity, flammability) and health (e.g., toxicity, irritation). Most pictograms specialize in one area—the Flame for flammables (physical only) or Skull and Crossbones for acute toxicity (health only)—but Corrosion uniquely bridges the gap.

  • Physical hazards : Indicates corrosivity to metals, where chemicals eat away at materials like steel or aluminum.
  • Health hazards : Warns of severe skin burns, eye damage, or respiratory tract destruction upon contact, inhalation, or ingestion.

Real-world examples include strong acids like sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) or bases like sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which etch metal containers while burning flesh on contact.

Quick Recognition Tips

Standardized since the UN's GHS adoption around 2003 (now used in over 70 countries, including OSHA in the US), this pictogram stands out for its vivid imagery of destruction.

  • Always paired with "Danger" or "Warning," plus phrases like "Causes severe skin burns and eye damage" or "May be corrosive to metals."
  • Found on drain cleaners, battery acid, or pool chemicals—everyday items with dual risks.

Common Misconceptions

No other GHS pictogram overlaps like this; the Health Hazard silhouette covers only chronic issues (e.g., cancer), not physical damage. Forums like Reddit's r/chemhelp often clarify this, noting how Corrosion's "dual-threat" design prevents confusion in workplaces.

TL;DR: Corrosion pictogram for both physical (metals) and health (skin/eyes) hazards—spot the dripping tubes!

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.