Pictogram 1: Flame - Organic Peroxides

Organic peroxides are classified under Pictogram 1, the Flame pictogram. The HCS definition for an organic peroxide is "an organic compound that contains the bivalent -O-O structure and which may be considered a structural derivative of hydrogen peroxide where one or both of the hydrogen atoms has been replaced by an organic radical."

Put into more simple terms, an organic peroxide is any organic compound (any compound that has carbon) with two oxygen atoms joined together (a bond described in chemistry as -O-O-). This group with -O-O- bonds is called a "peroxy" group. These chemicals come in many forms: solids (usually a fine powder), liquids, or pastes. Examples of organic peroxides are benzoyl peroxide and allyl hydroperoxide.

The peroxy group is very chemically unstable. These chemicals can harm the body through inhalation, eye contact, skin contact, or swallowing. They can destroy metals they come into contact with. They have the potential to be toxic, corrosive, and flammable.

Chemicals in the peroxy group also decompose easily, at which point they may emit flammable vapors that can then catch fire.

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