What is the intended purpose of a "hazard symbol" or "pictogram"?

The intended purpose of a "hazard symbol" or "pictogram" is to visually convey information regarding the hazards associated with the substance. These symbols are essential for ensuring safety and compliance in the handling of hazardous materials. By using universally recognized pictograms, individuals can quickly identify the type of hazard a substance presents, such as flammability, toxicity, or environmental risk. This visual communication is crucial in various fields such as manufacturing, transportation, and emergency response, as it allows for immediate understanding of potential dangers without requiring extensive reading or explanation.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary goal of hazard symbols. Embellishing packaging designs does not serve the critical function of risk communication that pictograms provide. Similarly, representing company branding and providing information on product usage are not the core purposes of hazard symbols, which are specifically focused on alerting users to potential dangers associated with the substances they are handling.