What health hazards can chemicals present?

Chemicals can pose a variety of health hazards that significantly impact workers' safety and health in various environments. The correct answer identifies specific types of hazardous agents: carcinogens, corrosives, toxins, and irritants.

Carcinogens are substances that may lead to cancer after prolonged exposure. Corrosives can cause significant damage to body tissues, particularly upon contact with skin or mucous membranes. Toxins refer to harmful substances that can cause injury or illness through various exposure routes, such as ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Irritants are materials that cause reversible inflammation or discomfort of the skin, eyes, or respiratory tract, indicating their potential danger to health.

The choices relating to fire risks, physical injuries, and electrical hazards, while important aspects of workplace safety, do not directly align with chemical health hazards as outlined by OSHA's Hazard Communication standards. Understanding these specific health risks connected to chemicals empowers workers and employers to implement appropriate safety measures, training, and personal protective equipment to mitigate those risks effectively.