Which of the following best describes the four color markings on the NFPA 704 system?

The NFPA 704 system uses a color-coded system to identify hazards associated with materials, especially in emergency situations.

The correct answer highlights that the color blue indicates health hazards, which signifies how a substance can affect the health of individuals. The red color refers to fire hazards, displaying the flammability of the material, and yellow denotes reactivity, indicating the potential for a substance to undergo a violent chemical change or react with other materials. Lastly, the white color is reserved for special hazards, providing additional information relevant to the material, such as radiation or corrosive characteristics.

Understanding this color-coding system is vital for effectively communicating hazards to firefighters and other first responders, enabling them to assess risks quickly and take appropriate actions during emergencies. Recognizing these markings helps ensure safety and enhance operational efficiency when dealing with hazardous materials.