Corrosive: Corrosion
The corrosion pictogram indicates substances that cause severe skin burns, serious eye damage, or are corrosive to metals on contact.
GHS05 warns of substances that can destroy living tissue (skin, eyes) and/or corrode metals upon contact. The pictogram shows both a hand and a metal surface being attacked by a liquid.
Skin corrosion means irreversible damage — visible necrosis through the epidermis into the dermis. This is distinct from skin irritation (GHS07), which is reversible. The distinction matters for labeling.
Handling corrosive chemicals requires appropriate PPE including chemical-resistant gloves, splash goggles or face shield, and chemical-resistant apron or suit. Emergency eyewash and shower stations must be accessible within 10 seconds of travel.
Hazard Classes
- Skin Corrosion (Cat. 1, 1A, 1B, 1C)
- Serious Eye Damage (Cat. 1)
- Corrosive to Metals (Cat. 1)
Common Examples
- Sulfuric acid
- Sodium hydroxide (lye)
- Hydrochloric acid
- Hydrofluoric acid
- Potassium hydroxide
- Concentrated ammonia
Hazard Statements
- H290: May be corrosive to metals
- H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H318: Causes serious eye damage
pH → Corrosion Risk
pH-Based Corrosion Risk Assessment
Enter the pH of your solution to estimate GHS corrosion classification.
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