What do the symbols on a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) represent?

The correct answer is centered on the purpose of the symbols found on a Safety Data Sheet (SDS). These symbols represent the hazards associated with the chemical materials, and their categorization is based on the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). The GHS is an internationally recognized system for classifying and labeling chemicals, and it employs standardized symbols (often referred to as hazard pictograms) to effectively communicate the inherent risks posed by various substances.

Understanding these symbols is crucial for safe handling and usage of chemicals, as they provide immediate visual identification of the type of hazards present, whether they be health-related, physical, or environmental. For instance, a flame symbol indicates a flammable substance, while a skull and crossbones signify toxicity.

The other options do not address the primary function of these symbols. While instructions for equipment use and safety training requirements are important aspects of workplace safety, they are not represented by the symbols on an SDS. Similarly, while the environmental impact of a material is critical information found in safety documentation, it is not conveyed through the hazard symbols, which focus solely on the dangers associated with chemical exposure.