4.1 Packages are often marked with handling instructions in the language of the country of origin. While this may safeguard the consignment to some extent, it is of little value for goods consigned to, or through, countries using different languages, and of no value at all if people unloading the packages are illiterate. Pictorial symbols offer the most likely means of conveying the consignor's intention and their adoption will, therefore, undoubtedly reduce loss and damage through incorrect handling. The use of pictorial symbols does not provide any guarantee of satisfactory handling; proper protective packaging is therefore of primary importance.

1.1 This practice establishes a set of symbols to be used for marking of packages or containers to indicate special handling and storage requirements.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.