Risk and Safety Statements
Encyclopedia
Risk and Safety Statements, also known as R/S statements, R/S numbers, R/S phrases, and R/S sentences, is a system of hazard
codes and phrases for labeling dangerous chemicals and compounds. The R/S statement of a compound consists of a risk part (R) and a safety part (S), each followed by a combination of numbers. Each number corresponds to a phrase. The phrase corresponding to the letter/number combination has the same meaning in different language
s—see 'languages' in the menu on the left.
In 2015, the risk and safety statements will be replaced by hazard statements
and precautionary statements
in the course of harmonising classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals by introduction of the UN
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
(37%):
The corresponding English language
phrases:
Dashes separate the phrase numbers. They are not to be confused with range indicators.
Slashes indicate fixed combinations of single phrases.
More detailed hazard and safety information can be found in the material safety data sheets (MSDS) of a compound.
Hazard
A hazard is a situation that poses a level of threat to life, health, property, or environment. Most hazards are dormant or potential, with only a theoretical risk of harm; however, once a hazard becomes "active", it can create an emergency situation. A hazard does not exist when it is not...
codes and phrases for labeling dangerous chemicals and compounds. The R/S statement of a compound consists of a risk part (R) and a safety part (S), each followed by a combination of numbers. Each number corresponds to a phrase. The phrase corresponding to the letter/number combination has the same meaning in different language
Language
Language may refer either to the specifically human capacity for acquiring and using complex systems of communication, or to a specific instance of such a system of complex communication...
s—see 'languages' in the menu on the left.
In 2015, the risk and safety statements will be replaced by hazard statements
GHS hazard statements
Hazard statements form part of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals . They are intended to form a set of standardized phrases about the hazards of chemical substances and mixtures that can be translated into different languages...
and precautionary statements
GHS precautionary statements
Precautionary statements form part of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals . They are intended to form a set of standardized phrases giving advice about the correct handling of chemical substances and mixtures, which can be translated into different languages...
in the course of harmonising classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals by introduction of the UN
United Nations
The United Nations is an international organization whose stated aims are facilitating cooperation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress, human rights, and achievement of world peace...
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
Example
The R/S statement code for fuming hydrochloric acidHydrochloric acid
Hydrochloric acid is a solution of hydrogen chloride in water, that is a highly corrosive, strong mineral acid with many industrial uses. It is found naturally in gastric acid....
(37%):
- R: 34-37 S: 26-36-45.
The corresponding English language
English language
English is a West Germanic language that arose in the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England and spread into what was to become south-east Scotland under the influence of the Anglian medieval kingdom of Northumbria...
phrases:
- Risks
- R: 34 Causes burns
- R: 37 Irritating to the respiratory system.
- Safety
- S: 26 In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice.
- S: 36 Wear suitable protective clothing.
- S: 45 In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show label where possible).
Dashes separate the phrase numbers. They are not to be confused with range indicators.
- Example: R: 34-37 Causes burns, irritating to the respiratory system.
Slashes indicate fixed combinations of single phrases.
- Example: R: 36/37/38 Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin.
More detailed hazard and safety information can be found in the material safety data sheets (MSDS) of a compound.