5.7 Oxidizing agents

Handling and storage guidelines

Oxidizing agents/chemicals, also known as oxidizers, are substances capable of oxidizing other substances. While oxidizers themselves are not necessarily combustible, they cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials.
Examples of common oxidizing agents include hydrogen peroxide, potassium dichromate, and sodium nitrate.

Organic peroxides are thermally unstable and releases heat whilst undergoing exothermic autocatalytic decomposition. Furthermore, organic peroxides can undergo explosive decomposition, burn rapidly, exhibit sensitivity to impact or friction, react dangerously with other substances, and potentially cause eye damage.

Store oxidizing chemicals in a cool, dry location and keep them away from flammable materials like wood, paper, Styrofoam, plastic and flammable organic chemicals. Also, avoid closeness to reducing agents such as zinc, alkaline metals, and formic acid.

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) indicates oxidizers using the flame-over-circle pictogram.

Pictogram	What shall be marked
	Oxidizing material shall be marked with this pictogram.
	Cupboards and refrigerator containing oxidizing material shall be marked with this pictogram.