NFPA 704

NFPA 704: Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response is a standard maintained by the U.S.-based National Fire Protection Association. First tentatively adopted as a guide in 1960, and revised several times since then, it defines the Safety Square or Fire Diamond which is used to quickly and easily identify the risks posed by hazardous materials. This helps determine what, if any, special equipment should be used, procedures followed, or precautions taken during the initial stages of an emergency response. It is an internationally accepted safety standard, and is crucial while transporting chemicals.