What does the NFPA labeling system use to identify hazards?

The NFPA labeling system utilizes a color-coded diamond shape to effectively convey information about the hazards associated with materials. This diamond features four distinct quadrants, each of which is used to represent different types of hazards: health risks, flammability, reactivity, and specific hazards. Each quadrant is filled with a number ranging from 0 to 4, where 0 indicates minimal or no hazard and 4 signifies a severe hazard. This visual system allows for quick recognition and understanding of the potential dangers present, facilitating a faster and more efficient response by emergency personnel. The use of a diamond shape is integral to its design, as it centralizes all relevant hazard information in one easily interpretable format.