Hazardous chemicals and compounds are generally which type of hazards?

• A. Health
• B. Physical
• C. Either a or b
• D. Neither a nor b

Answer: (C)

Hazards from chemicals fall into two main categories: health hazards and physical hazards. A health hazard is anything that could harm the body through exposure—toxicity, irritation, sensitization, carcinogenic effects, and similar effects. A physical hazard relates to the chemical’s properties that can cause fires, explosions, reactivity, or other physical dangers. Since a chemical can pose health risks, physical risks, or both, hazardous chemicals and compounds are generally either health hazards or physical hazards. For example, a solvent that's flammable is a physical hazard, while a toxic gas or a corrosive substance is a health hazard. Some substances can present both kinds of danger depending on conditions.