International Chemical Safety Card

International Chemical Safety Card (ICSC) is a globally recognized system designed to provide essential safety information about chemicals. The cards are produced by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

Overview

The International Chemical Safety Card system was established to promote the safe use of chemicals in the workplace. The cards provide concise information about the hazards of materials and advice about safety precautions. They are not a substitute for a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), but they provide essential health and safety information in a clear and concise way.

Structure of an ICSC

Each ICSC is a two-page document that provides information in a standardized format. The front page includes the chemical's name, formula, and uses, as well as physical and chemical hazards. The back page provides information on health hazards, first aid measures, and preventive measures.

Front Page

The front page of an ICSC includes the following sections:

• Identification: This section includes the chemical's name, synonyms, trade names, molecular formula, and CAS number.
• Physical & Chemical Properties: This section describes the chemical's appearance, odor, pH, boiling point, melting point, flash point, and other physical and chemical properties.
• Fire Hazards: This section provides information on the chemical's flammability and the appropriate extinguishing media.
• Explosion Hazards: This section describes the conditions under which the chemical can explode and the protective measures to prevent explosions.

Back Page

The back page of an ICSC includes the following sections:

• Health Hazards: This section describes the potential health effects of exposure to the chemical, including symptoms of exposure and medical attention required.
• First Aid Measures: This section provides information on the first aid measures to be taken in case of exposure to the chemical.
• Preventive Measures: This section provides information on the preventive measures to be taken to avoid exposure to the chemical.

Use of ICSCs

ICSCs are used worldwide by workers, health and safety professionals, emergency responders, and others who handle chemicals. They are available in many languages and can be downloaded for free from the ILO and WHO websites.

See Also

• Material Safety Data Sheet
• Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals
• European Chemicals Agency
• International Labour Organization
• World Health Organization

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