What is the primary function of the NFPA label system?

The primary function of the NFPA label system is to indicate the health, flammability, and reactivity hazards of materials. This system utilizes a color-coded diamond shape that conveys critical information at a glance. The blue section represents health hazards, the red section signifies flammability risks, and the yellow section indicates reactivity concerns, with numbers from 0 to 4 assigned in each category to show the degree of hazard.

This labeling method is crucial for first responders, workers, and others who may come into contact with hazardous materials, as it allows for quick assessment and appropriate safety measures to be taken in case of exposure or accidents. Understanding these hazards helps in ensuring safety protocols are effectively implemented.

The other options focus on processes or information that are not central to the NFPA's purpose, emphasizing shipping history, packaging specifications, or waste disposal, which do not convey immediate hazard information in the same way the NFPA system does.