Final answer:
Diamond shaped signs on roadways indicate potential hazards and the NFPA 704 diamond symbol provides safety information about chemical hazards, rating them on a scale from 0 (no hazard) to 4 (extremely hazardous).
Step-by-step explanation:
Diamond shaped signs are a universal symbol warning of existing or possible hazards on roadways or adjacent areas. These signs are critical for ensuring safety and providing directions to drivers and pedestrians. For example, a diamond-shaped sign with a pedestrian symbol warns drivers that they are approaching an area where people may be crossing the street and to proceed with caution. Similarly, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 704 Hazard Identification System uses a diamond-shaped symbol to signal chemical hazards. This system utilizes a color-coded diamond with red, blue, yellow, and white sections to convey the severity of fire, health, reactivity, and other special hazards respectively. Each hazard is rated on a scale from 0 (no hazard) to 4 (extremely hazardous), giving a quick assessment of the dangers associated with a chemical.