Pictogram 7: Health Hazard - Reproductive Toxins

Pictogram 7, the Health Hazard pictogram, identifies reproductive toxins. The HCS definition of reproductive toxins is "chemicals which affect the reproductive capabilities including chromosomal damage (mutations) and effects on fetuses (teratogenesis)."

Reproductive toxins can cause damage to both the male and female reproductive systems. The substances that cause birth defects are referred to as "teratogens."

OSHA notes that the HCS definition of a reproductive toxin is "comprehensive and incorporates toxic effects on all elements of the process of reproduction, including damage to the germ cells of both males and females (sperm and ova)." Therefore, the list of potential side effects of reproductive toxins is long and includes the following health problems:

• Sterility
• Decreased libido
• Impotence
• Interrupted pregnancy (abortion, fetal death, or premature delivery)
• Birth defects in the offspring
• Altered sex ratio and multiple births
• Chromosome abnormalities
• Childhood morbidity
• Childhood cancer

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