JBL PROAQUATEST PO4 Phosphate Sensitive
Quick test to determine the phosphate content in fresh and marine water aquariums and ponds

  • Determines the phosphate value for perfect plant growth or possible cause of algae growth in freshwater/marine water & ponds
  • Laboratory comparator system to compensate the inherent water colour: fill glass vials with sample water, add reagents to a vial, place vials in holder, read values off colour chart
  • Use: when setting up a new freshwater or marine aquarium: once a week. With algae problems and for checking tap water
  • You will find detailed information and troubleshooting tips about water analysis on the JBL website in Essentials/Aquarium or Pond
  • Package contents: 1 test kit for approx. 50 measurements, incl. 3 reagents (2x reagent 2), 2 glass vials with screw caps, syringe, dosing spoon, comparator block and colour scale. Reagent refill separately available
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Price: 21,80 €
Recommended retail price incl. VAT
You can find this item in your specialist and online shop
Price: 12,32 €
Recommended retail price incl. VAT
You can find this item in your specialist and online shop
Product information

Healthy aquarium/healthy pond with conditions close to nature
The right water values depend on the fish stock and the plants in the aquarium/pond. Even if the water looks clear it can be contaminated. With bad values diseases or algae can appear in the aquarium/pond. To maintain a healthy aquarium/pond with conditions close to nature it is important to check and adapt the water values regularly.

For each water analysis JBL provides water tests in the form of quick tests or colour change tests. These determine a certain value or several values in one go. With these water tests you can recognise algae problems and negative nitrate, nitrite, potassium, magnesium values etc.

Why test?
In an aquarium, phosphate primarily enters the water as a result of the digestive processes of the fish or in the form of food remains. In ponds, phosphate primarily enters the water as a result of leaves and dying pond plants/algae. If conditions are unfavourable, the phosphate levels may reach values that are sometimes 100 times higher, and more, than natural levels. Undesirable algae will then multiply exponentially as an inevitable consequence.

Recommended phosphate values:
Freshwater aquarium (community aquarium): 0-0.4 mg/l
Lake Malawi/Lake Tanganyika aquarium: 0-0.4 mg/l
Plant aquarium with few fish (aquascaping): 0.1-1.5 mg/l
Marine aquarium: 0-0.1 mg/l
Pond: <0.05 mg/l

Videos
Details

JBL PROAQUATEST PO4 Phosphate Sensitive

Art. no.:
2412700
EAN Code:
4014162241276
For:
50 Tests
Volume packaging:
0.8 l
Gross weight:
172 g
Net weight:
111 g
Weight factor:
0
Packaging dimensions (l/h/w):
43/175/106 mm

Properties

Animal species: Armored catfish, Arowana, Axolotl, Barbels, Bettas, Bichirs/reedfish, Blowfish, Catfish, Cichlids (South America), Clawed frogs, Clawed shrimps, Corals, Crayfish, Crustaceans, Danions, Discus, Dwarf crayfish, Dwarf shrimps, Flowerhorn, Gill maggots, Gobies, Goldfish, Gouramis, Guppy, Juvenile fish, Killifish, Livebearers, Loaches, Mussels, Newts, Panchaxes, Rainbowfish, Snails, Spiny eels, Terrapins, Tetra, Tropical terrapin, Veiltails, Water turtles, blood parrot cichlids, freshwater butterflyfish
Animal size: For all animal sizes
Animal age group: All aquarium fish
Material: Reagent(s) in plastic bottle(s) and/or glass bottle(s) + plastic and/or glass accessories. REFILL: reagent(s) without accessories.
Colour: white / transparent / black
Dosage: See instructions

Electronic label / illuminant

Mercury: No
Dimmable: No

Technical Data

Height:175 mm
Length:106 mm
Width:43 mm

JBL PROAQUATEST PO4 REFILL

Art. no.:
2412800
EAN Code:
4014162241283
For:
Refill
Volume packaging:
0.57 l
Gross weight:
74.5 g
Net weight:
33 g
Weight factor:
0
Packaging dimensions (l/h/w):
30/175/110 mm

Properties

Animal species: Armored catfish, Arowana, Axolotl, Barbels, Bettas, Bichirs/reedfish, Blowfish, Catfish, Cichlids (South America), Clawed frogs, Clawed shrimps, Corals, Crayfish, Crustaceans, Danions, Discus, Dwarf crayfish, Dwarf shrimps, Flowerhorn, Gill maggots, Gobies, Goldfish, Gouramis, Guppy, Juvenile fish, Killifish, Livebearers, Loaches, Mussels, Newts, Panchaxes, Rainbowfish, Snails, Spiny eels, Terrapins, Tetra, Tropical terrapin, Veiltails, Water turtles, blood parrot cichlids, freshwater butterflyfish
Animal size: For all animal sizes
Animal age group: All aquarium fish
Material: Reagent(s) in plastic bottle(s) and/or glass bottle(s) + plastic and/or glass accessories. REFILL: reagent(s) without accessories.
Colour: white / transparent / black
Dosage: See instructions

Electronic label / illuminant

Mercury: No
Dimmable: No

Technical Data

Height:64 mm
Length:48 mm
Width:24 mm
FAQ
Are polyphosphates in the aquarium detected by a PO4 drop test?

No, the drop tests JBL PROAQUATEST PO4 Phosphate Koi and JBL PROAQUATEST PO4 Phosphate Sensitive do not detect polyphosphates. Depending on the pH value, the polyphosphates decompose slowly in the aquarium. As soon as they have decomposed, the two tests can detect the phosphate inside.

Unequal consumption of individual water test reagents

The liquids of one reagent are empty, the powder is still half-filled. Can't you just buy individual bottles? No, because the JBL refill packs always contain all the reagents as a set and need to be replaced together. There is a reason for this. The reagents age when they are first opened and should therefore be disposed of completely as soon as one of the reagent bottles is empty. The unequal consumption is due to the fact that some test procedures require an individual number of drops, depending on the existing value in the aquarium water. So one needs more, the other less. The liquids can be emptied completely. In the case of powder, you cannot use the quantity you need if there is only a residual amount left. Thus the quantity is on the generous side, so that the range is ensured even with low liquid consumption.

Where can I find the record sheets for the documentation of my water analysis?

Have you lost your record sheets, used them all up, or need them in another language?
In the appendix of this FAQ you will find PDF files for printing them out in German, English and French.

Why are there different recommendations and values on the colour chart of the water test?

With the JBL PROAQUATEST drop tests you have a laboratory comparator system which compensates the inherent colouration of the water and at the same time enables non-chemists to carry out an accurate and safe water analysis. To ensure that water testing monitors the life of your fish and provides the greatest possible safety, you will find an evaluation adaptable to three different applications.

Above the different coloured measuring points are numbers, three symbols and a colour band for each.

The symbols stand for the following applications:
Fish = freshwater
Koi = garden pond
Starfish = marine water

The colour band tells you the meaning of the value determined in green (everything OK), yellow (attention) and red (need for action). In addition you will find numbers that reflect the value in mg/l for the respective colour field.

The first two (freshwater and pond) colour bands belong to the upper number row. Marine water belongs to the lower number row.

Why do the values differ?
Due to the high salt concentration in marine water, the colouring of the reaction is not as intense as in freshwater (which also includes pond). Consequently, the value for the same colouration is greater than in freshwater

Why do the recommendations differ?
Every habitat reacts differently to certain nutrient concentrations. In the garden pond, for example, constantly changing temperatures and light intensity can jeopardise the value more than in freshwater, where, unlike in the pond, these factors are constant and necessary additives are supplied. That’s why the recommendations are green for one area of application, yet yellow for the other.

What happens if I use the wrong side of the spoon for the powder?

Your test result will remain clear or appear slightly yellow, although phosphate may be present. If your test kit has not expired or has been open for more than 9-12 months, this is a clear indication that you have used the wrong side of the spoon.
The small side of the spoon should only be levelly filled and is in the place normally used to hold it. For clarification, take a look at the picture below.

Show more FAQs ...
Blog (opinions & experiences)

JBL TV #53 How do you carry out water tests correctly and what are the most common mistakes?

Water tests for aquarium water can be very important, especially when there are problems.

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Pond preparation: what to do in spring

Taking the right steps in spring sets the course for healthy fish and for algae prevention.

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JBL TV #52 What kind of water do my aquarium fish need? What water values are ideal?

We want our aquarium fish to feel comfortable in the water. But what does ideal water mean for fish in the aquarium?

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JBL PROAQUATEST - simple yet laboratory standard - Part II

Today we’re continuing on the topic of water tests, with Part II of the blog post from 22.01.2023. Enjoy reading.

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Have you got the right CO2 and fertiliser content in your aquarium?

It’s important to check the CO2 and fertiliser in your aquarium to make sure your plants grow the way you want them to.

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JBL TV #45: Optimum water values in the freshwater aquarium - 15 parameters explained simply

Biologist Heiko Blessin explains in an easy to follow way what the individual water values mean.

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JBL water tests - how to test correctly and reap the benefits

Lots of scientists & experts swear by the JBL water tests, but why?

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JBL TV #27: Testing aquarium water - this is how it works

Water tests for aquariums: Aquarium water can be clear and still toxic to aquarium inhabitants!

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Video: Water Test to Determine Phosphate, the Algae Nutrient, in Aquariums & Ponds

Would you like to know why you have algae in your aquarium? Accurately test the phosphate content in your aquarium water.

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JBL TV #8: Do the plants in your aquarium grow exactly as you want them to?

What makes for ideal plant growth? All the factors for good plant growth: light, LED, tubes, fertilisation, fertilisation quantity, fertilisation monitoring, influence of water conditioners, chelated iron.

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JBL TV #2: Why do algae grow in the aquarium and how can you stop it?

When algae take over the aquarium, there are always one or two possible causes. In this video, biologist Heiko Blessin explains very clearly and comprehensibly why algae grow at all and what we aquarium enthusiasts can do about it. The topic of algae in the aquarium has never been explained in a simpler and more understandable way!

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Misunderstandings – typical beginner mistakes

Based on our own experience in customer service and the many messages and questions we receive, we have put together the typical mistakes beginners may make. The experienced aquarist might well smile, but if they are honest, these are mistakes we all made at the start, aren’t they?

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Preparations for the autumn - algae prevention

If you take proper action now, by reducing the nutrient input and the existing nutrient sources, you can prevent algae problems in the coming year.

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Time For A Change - Pros And Cons

Think back to your childhood. Your bedroom was a small area for you to let your imagination run free. And unsurprisingly you felt like re-decorating and rearranging it at least every three weeks.

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How often do you need to test your pond or aquarium water?

Granted, nobody really enjoys testing water. It’s time-consuming and sometimes you’re not sure which colour on the chart your water result matches. But water testing really can be lifesaving – at least for your fish!

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The Water Change In Ponds Is Important!

Water changes have several additional benefits: potentially dangerous substances, such as nitrates and phosphates, are removed from my pond, minerals are added, and any colour cast in the water is reduced.

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Testing Water in the Jungle

Our 15 expeditions have taught us something new: In natural waters nitrogens (ammonium/ammonia, nitrite and nitrate) and phosphates are ALWAYS scarce and below the limit of detection. Only when humans have an influence on the natural water, can nitrogens and phosphates be found.

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Plant Fertilisation with Optimised Consumption

The first step shows you how to achieve perfect water values and the second one how to modify your re-dosing to suit consumption. Unlike with standard fertilisation you adjust the fertiliser amount to your aquarium and not only save money but also get perfect looking plants.

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Outline: Fertilisation in the Aquarium

The JBL plant care concept leads to vigorous and healthy growth even with the most demanding aquatic plants. JBL has all the components you need, whether it’s a fertiliser, a bottom substrate or a fully automatic CO2 fertiliser system.

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Laboratory Comparator System to Compensate the Intrinsic Colour of the Water

Instead of comparing the colour change of the water on a colour scale, a second measuring glass with the aquarium water is put on the colour field of the colour chart.

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Care products - The best solutions for your aquarium

With the right products, aquarium care is not only easy, but can also be a lot of fun! The formulas that make up JBL products are based on intensive research and, especially with care products, their effects are not always immediately visible, yet in the medium and long-term they’ll result in a beautiful aquarium and healthy fish.

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The JBL Calculators – Calculated Success

The three most important factors for your plant aquariums are the nutrient balance, the substrate and the lighting.

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How often should you fertilise – daily or weekly?

The subjects of plant care and fertilisation can sometimes take on a philosophical element. There are a lot of approaches and a lot of them can lead to success. It is important that your chosen approach suits your aquarium.

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Inaccurate water tests – or did I do something wrong after all?

In the aquarium scene we often hear people talking about “accurate” and “inaccurate” tests. But mostly they mean a rougher or finer scaling of the output values.

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How much fertiliser does your aquarium need?

We are often asked: “How much fertiliser do I need for my aquarium?” On all product packaging you find dosage recommendations which give you initial information on how to start the fertilisation.

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Testing water – here’s how

The water in your aquarium is outstandingly significant because it is a life-giving element for fish and plants.

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Keeping an eye on the most important water values

Professional water analysis sounds very expensive. But the professional water testing in your aquarium or pond at home also works on a high level and above all it is simple and inexpensive.

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Heavy rain – watch your water values

There has been plenty of heavy rainfall in Germany in the last few days. The ponds are full to the brim and the garden - and more - is under water.

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Water values for water plants in detail

If we transfer this Liebig’s Law of the Minimum to the aquatic field it quickly becomes clear how important balanced fertilisation is for plant aquariums.

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Plant care: How can water tests help?

Ideally water looks crystal-clear, yet pollutants are often invisible. That’s why clear water might still be toxic.

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Algae in Sight: Pollen and Blossoms as Growth Engines

The flowers are blooming and the allergy sufferers know it only too well: the pollen count! We can see the powdery yellow coating on our cars and on the forest paths. The pollen count and small leaves are floating through the air and reaching our ponds in huge amounts.

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Phosphate: The cause of tomorrow’s algae is in your pond now.

Many pond owners don’t realise this. That’s why they don’t react to algae growth until it’s too late. This is not only annoying, it makes it harder to achieve clear water for your dream landscape.

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There’s more to fertilization than you’d think Part 2

Simply put, Liebig’s Law of the Minimum states that the growth of plants is limited by the scarcest resource. Adding a nutrient which already exists in abundance does not influence the growth.

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Fertilization is not just fertilization Part 1

Unlike in natural waters, aquariums with fish mostly have a surplus of nutrients caused by feeding and the resulting fish excrement. Thus nitrates and phosphates in large (often too large!) quantities are available for the plants.

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You ask, we answer: What’s the best way to fertilise an aquascape?

Dear Chris, dear Community, Thank you for your question. A luxuriant plant growth is based on the elements lighting, CO2 supply and an optimal fertilisation with nutrients.

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Press

14.08.2020

JBL has the largest range of water tests worldwide!

With 24 different water analysis tests for freshwater and marine aquariums and ponds as well as 8 different test cases, JBL offers the widest range of water tests worldwide. The second place is shared by two American manufacturers with 15 individual tests each, but with only 0 and 2 test cases respectively.

Find out more

12.03.2019

JBL Water Tests Now Even Better

Scientists, aquarium owners, pond enthusiasts, and especially those who need reliable, accurate water tests, use JBL water tests. Over the years, the JBL development team has been collecting and is now ready to implement your suggestions for improvements.

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Reference guide (Themeworld)

Testing water

Water can look crystal clear and still contain a deadly poison such as arsenic. Unfortunately we are unable to assess the quality of the pond water by looking at it.

Water treatment

How can you treat well and tap water to make it suitable for your pond?

Plants

Why are plants so important for your pond? What needs to be considered?

Plant species

Which plant species are suitable for your pond?

Plant care

How to look after the plants in your pond?

Seasonal maintenance

Which seasonal maintenance is needed? What do you need to remember when?

Water maintenance

What does water maintenance involve? Why is it important to look after your pond water?

The water tests – all parameters

You don't always have to do all the tests, any more than your doctor will look in your ears when your knee hurts. In the following table you will find brief information about where a water test can help.

Algae species

Do you have green water or thread algae? We’ll give you long term solutions for algae problems

Marine water

There is a solution to almost every problem! And the hardest part is finding the cause of the problem.

Reducing problematic water values

How to lower critical water values.

Deficiency symptoms

Here’s how to prevent deficiency symptoms in fish and plants

Combating algae

Do you have green water or thread algae? We’ll give you long term solutions for algae problems

Algae control

Here’s how to combat algae successfully and lastingly.

Marine water treatment

What maintenance does your marine aquarium need?

Testing water

Testing water – the most important step to understanding your aquarium. Why is water testing necessary?

Daily care

How much daily or weekly care is involved? What are the basic maintenance measures for your aquarium?

Fish breeding in aquariums

Would you also like to breed your fish? What do you have to consider when breeding?

Water tests

What water tests are available? How do water tests work? How do you test properly?

Water values

Which water tests are important? How can you achieve perfect water values?

Plants

Which aquarium plants are best? What’s the best way to plant them?

CO2 plant fertilisation

How important is CO2 plant fertilisation? Why do your plants need additional CO2? How does a CO2 system work?

The marine aquarium

Holiday at the coral reef - in your own living room! Marine aquariums are the most exciting branch of aquatics

Biotope (habitat) aquarium types

A real piece of the Amazon or, with the Congo, a piece of the heart of Africa. A habitat (biotope) aquarium is a challenge. Can you emulate nature?

Aquascaping aquarium type JBL Dreamscape®

Mountains, valleys, meadows and fish! Create your dreamlike landscape under water with the Dreamscape® aquarium

Jungle aquarium type JBL Rio Pantanal®

A bit of jungle river in your living room. Lively underwater action! No problem with the JBL Rio Pantanal® aquarium

Goldfish aquarium type JBL Goldfish Paradise®

Lively goldfish in the aquarium enhance any room perfectly! Invite some new flatmates into your home with this goldfish aquarium.

Rocky reef aquarium type JBL Malawi Rocks®

The fish of Lake Malawi are as colourful as the fish in the coral reefs. This aquarium brings a bit of freshwater reef into your living room

Fish care

How do you protect your new fish? What to remember when caring for fish?

The right filter material

What sort of filter material to choose? What filter material solves which problems? How can you clean it? Where does it need to be positioned in the filter?

Marine water - the water

What exactly is marine water? What is so special about marine water? How to create perfect marine water?

Plant species

Which plant species suit your aquarium? What demands do the individual species have?

Plant growth

Are your aquarium plants growing as well you want? Here’s how to achieve perfect plant growth

Filter material as troubleshooter

Which filter media combats which problems? What you need to optimise water values?
Download

Instructions

Additional product information and downloads

safety instructions

spare parts
Customer reviews

Reviews

Overall rating: 5.0
8 public review(s) for this product.

0 Reviews

8 more reviews in other languages

8 Reviews in other languages

T. Fischer - German
2022-09-15T18:57:19Z

Höchst genauer Test! Leicht durchzuführen! Hab ich mir als Zusatz für meinen Testkoffer geholt! Sehr zu empfehlen!


samija_aquaristik - German
2022-07-20T12:04:39Z

Neben Nitrat für mich persönlich der wichtigste Test, wenn es um die Düngung geht. Die Kurzanleitung auf der Skala finde ich super, einfacher geht es nicht. Der Test ist auch sehr schön abzulesen. Toll, dass man ihn auch als Nachfüllpack bekommt, nutze ich sehr gerne.


B. Achilles - German
2022-06-15T09:42:59Z

Günstige Nachfülllösung eines guten Tests. Wenn man noch die Messbecher und Ableseskala hat, kann man zu diesem Set greifen.


B. Achilles - German
2022-06-15T09:39:36Z

Der Test ist einfach durchzuführen und zeigt die Menge an Phosphat in kleinen Schritten an. So kann man seine Düngung anpassen oder die Ursache für Algen erkennen.

Auch erwähnenswert finde ich die Ablesemethode, die die Färbung des Wassers mit berücksichtigt. Das ist top


Aquarium_Zimmer - German
2022-05-19T18:48:53Z

Mit dem JBL Nachfüllpack PO4 Refill kann man nachhaltig den JBL Testkoffer auffülle.

Außerdem ist der JBL PO4 Test sehr gut abzulesen.


marinereeflife - Polish
2021-05-05T11:49:58Z

Hello, these tests are very reliable, I compared them with other tests and they are distinguished by their simplicity and accuracy in the measurement of phosphates, allows for about 50 tests, the set includes a syringe and containers for testing with detailed instructions. I RECOMMEND THE PRODUCT FOR QUALITY IN RELATION TO THE PRICE. Mateusz Kwiatkowski


der_ aquariumschrank - German
2021-02-24T16:25:48Z

Leicht verständlicher Test super für Anfänger


cedric_scape - French
2021-02-22T18:45:12Z

Test absolument nécessaire pour l'aquascaping , facile à utiliser et résultat précis,


JBL PO4 Sensitive 1 - safety information in accordance with GHS

Signal word: Danger

Hazard symbol

  • GHS05
  • GHS07

Risk phrase

H302: Harmful if swallowed.
H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
H335: May cause respiratory irritation.

safety note

P101: If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand.
P102: Keep out of reach of children.
P303+P361+P353: IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water [or shower].
P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P501a: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.

Hazard-determining component

7647-01-0/1: hydrogen chloride
7664-93-9: sulphuric acid

JBL PO4 Sensitive 2 - safety information in accordance with GHS

Signal word: Danger

Hazard symbol

  • GHS05
  • GHS07

Risk phrase

H302: Harmful if swallowed.
H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
H318: Causes serious eye damage.
H335: May cause respiratory irritation.

safety note

P101: If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand.
P102: Keep out of reach of children.
P303+P361+P353: IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water [or shower].
P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P501a: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.

Hazard-determining component

7647-01-0/1: hydrogen chloride

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