P and H statements
The manufacturer of a hazardous substance or mixture must include on the packaging the phrases H (Hazard Statements) indicating the type of hazard and P (Precautionary Statements) indicating the precautions to be taken to work safely with the substance or mixture.
The H phrase consists of:
- the letter H
- a number indicating the hazard (2 – physical hazard, 3 – health hazard, 4 – environmental hazard),
- and two numbers corresponding to the next hazard number.
Examples of “H” phrases:
| H200 | Unstable explosives |
| H229 | Pressurized container: may burst if heated |
| H261 | In contact with water it releases flammable gases. |
| H300 | Swallowing can be fatal. |
| H310 | May be fatal if in contact with skin. |
| H332 | Harmful if inhaled. |
| H400 | Very toxic to aquatic organisms |
| H413 | May cause long-term harmful effects to aquatic life. |
| H420 | It is harmful to the environment by destroying ozone damage. |
The P phrase consists of:
- the letter P
- a number indicating the precaution (1 – general, 2 – prevention, 3 – response, 4 – storage, 5 – disposal),
- and two numbers corresponding to the next number of the precaution.
| P101 | If you need to seek medical advice, show the container. |
| P102 | Keep out of reach of children. |
| P103 | Read the label before use. |
| P211 | Do not spray on an open flame or other ignition source. |
| P223 | Do not allow contact with water. |
| P283 | Wear fire-resistant or flame-retardant clothing. |
| P310 | Contact a doctor immediately. |
| P352 | Wash with plenty of water. |
| P380 | Evacuate the area. |
| P405 | Store locked up. |
| P410 | Protect from sunlight. |
| P420 | Store separately |
