Signal Words


Signal words appear in ALL CAPS on the front of hazardous products because they are legally required. Signal words indicate short-term or acute health effects, not chronic or long-term health impacts from lower repeated exposures, which may include neurological harm, organ damage, cancer, etc.
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  • CAUTION:
    • ​Product is slightly toxic and may cause slight eye or skin irritation if ingested, absorbed through the skin, or inhaled.
    • Lethal dose: 1 ounce to 1 pint
  • WARNING: 
    • ​Product is moderately toxic by at least one route of exposure and may cause moderate eye or skin irritation.
    • Lethal dose: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon
  • DANGER:
    • ​Product is highly toxic by at least one route of exposure (oral, dermal, inhalation), or may be corrosive causing irreversible damage to the skin or eyes.
    • Lethal dose: Less than a teaspoon
  • DANGER/POISON: 
    • ​Extremely toxic when consumed, inhaled or absorbed through the skin or eyes, etc. (must have skull and crossbones symbol on label).
    • Lethal dose: few drops to a teaspoon

Routes of Exposure

Routes of exposure are the ways that hazardous or toxic materials can enter our bodies and include:
  • Inhalation
  • Absorption through skin, open wound or eye​
  • Oral ingestion
  • Injection by a sharp object puncturing skin