What does the blue color represent in the NFPA's hazard system diamond?

The blue color in the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) hazard system diamond represents health hazards. This system uses a color-coded diamond to convey information about the hazards associated with materials in terms of health risks, flammability, reactivity, and other special hazards.

The left segment of the diamond is blue, and it is specifically used to indicate the degree of health hazards a substance may pose to individuals handling or exposed to it. The numeric scale ranges from 0 (no hazard) to 4 (high hazard), facilitating quick and easy identification of potential health risks, such as toxicity or chronic health effects.

Understanding this color coding is essential for ensuring safety in environments where hazardous materials are present, as it guides responders and workers in taking appropriate precautions to protect their health while handling these substances. Such clarity helps in operational safety and compliance with regulations related to hazardous materials.