FAQ's

What is considered as a corrosive material?

Any substance that can hurt or badly damage skin, eyes or things it touches is a material. This includes acids, bases, some cleaning agents, battery acid and industrial solvents. That is why it is important to identify them as they can be very dangerous.

Where should signs for materials be placed?

These signs should be put on storage cabinets and shelves where corrosive chemicals are kept. They should also be placed on the outside of tanks and drums at the entrance to rooms where chemicals are stored, near areas where chemicals are mixed and dispensed and on equipment and pipes that carry corrosive substances.

What are the rules about materials in the workplace?

The rules from OSHA cover how to communicate hazards from chemicals, including corrosive materials. Specifically, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 is about communicating hazards from chemicals. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.145 is about signs and tags that prevent accidents. There are also rules for certain corrosive materials like sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide. These rules are under 29 CFR 1910 Subpart Z. The Department of Transportation also has rules about materials when they are being transported, which are under 49 CFR.

Should corrosive materials signs include PPE requirements?

It is a good idea to include this information. A sign that says "Corrosive Material: Safety Goggles and Chemical-Resistant Gloves Required" tells workers what they need to do to be safe. Some places use one sign to warn of the material and another sign to say what protective equipment is needed. Corrosive materials signs should include this information to keep workers safe.

Are these signs suitable for outdoor chemical storage areas?

Yes, they can be used outdoors also. The signs are made of vinyl so they can withstand sun, rain and different temperatures without fading or peeling. This makes them perfect for areas where chemicals are stored like tank enclosures and chemical storage sheds.

Do we need these signs if our chemical containers already have labels that say they are corrosive?

The labels on the containers are important. They only tell us about the specific container. Corrosive materials signs tell us about the area. Workers need to know about the hazard before they even get near to the container. We need both labels on containers and corrosive materials signs to keep workers safe.

What size options are available?

The signs come in different sizes. Some common sizes for hazard signs are 3.5" x 5", 5" x 7", 7" x 10", 10" x 14" These sizes ensure that the signs are visible and easy to read. These signs need to be big enough to grab people's attention and small enough to fit in the space available.