Environmental Hazard: Environment
The environment pictogram indicates substances hazardous to the aquatic environment, capable of causing short-term or long-term damage to water organisms.
GHS09 is unique among GHS pictograms because OSHA does not require it on workplace labels in the United States — it's optional under the Hazard Communication Standard. However, it IS required in the EU under CLP regulation and in many other jurisdictions.
The pictogram covers both acute aquatic toxicity (short-term harm to fish, crustaceans, and algae) and chronic aquatic toxicity (long-term effects including bioaccumulation).
Even though OSHA doesn't mandate this pictogram, responsible chemical management includes proper disposal procedures and spill prevention to protect waterways. Many states have environmental regulations that apply regardless of federal OSHA requirements.
Hazard Classes
- Aquatic Acute Toxicity (Cat. 1)
- Aquatic Chronic Toxicity (Cat. 1-4)
Common Examples
- Copper sulfate
- Many pesticides
- Motor oil
- Mercury compounds
- Zinc compounds
- Tributyltin
Hazard Statements
- H400: Very toxic to aquatic life
- H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects
- H411: Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects
Aquatic Toxicity Classifier
Aquatic Toxicity Category (LC50/EC50)
Enter the 96h LC50 for fish or 48h EC50 for crustaceans to classify aquatic toxicity.
What Is GHS? A Simple Guide to the Globally Harmonized System
Learn what the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) is, why it was created, and how it affects chemical labeling in your workplace.
GHS Label Requirements: What OSHA Requires on Every Chemical Container
Complete guide to OSHA's GHS labeling requirements including pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and more.