What are S-phrases?
S-phrases (S for safety) are standardised safety phrases that, under European rules, appeared on the packaging of hazardous substances and products. Each phrase had a number, such as S2 or S24/25, and described a precaution: how to use and store the product safely, and what to do in the event of an accident. S-phrases went together with R-phrases, which described the hazard itself.
Examples
- S2: Keep out of the reach of children.
- S24/25: Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
- S26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice.
- S37/39: Wear suitable gloves and eye/face protection.
Combinations with a slash are simply two phrases joined together.
Replaced by P-statements
Under the European CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, the R- and S-phrases have been replaced by H-statements (hazard) and P-statements (precautionary). For mixtures such as paint, adhesive, sealant and cement products, the new system has applied since 1 June 2015. A P-statement has a three-digit number, for example P102 (keep out of reach of children) or P280 (wear protective gloves and eye protection).
In practice
- Old stock: sheds, cellars and site cabins often still hold tins and bottles with S-phrases. That does not make the product any less hazardous; take the phrases seriously.
- Safety data sheet: for professional use, the supplier must make a safety data sheet available. It lists the current H- and P-statements and the protective equipment required.
- Working with cement, lime and epoxy: these very common building products carry phrases about skin and eye contact. Wet cement is strongly alkaline and can cause burns to the skin with prolonged contact; wear gloves and safety glasses.
Tips
- Do not throw old products with illegible labels in the general waste, but take them to the household hazardous waste point at your local recycling centre.
- Never decant leftovers into another, unlabelled container.
Related terms
- R-phrases
- Asbestos
- Latex cement
- Slaked lime
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