 What are Hazardous Substances
Hazardous substances are substances that are toxic, reactive, corrosive or otherwise dangerous to living things and or the environment. Hazardous substances are often labeled to indicate their risks, as indicated below:
Hazard Symbols and Characteristics
Symbol |
Characteristics |
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Flammable/combustible: Can be easily set on fire. |
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Explosive/reactive: Can detonate or explode through exposure to heat, sudden shock, pressure or incompatible substances. |
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Corrosive: Chemical action can burn and destroy living tissues or other materials when brought in contact. |
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Toxic: Capable of causing injury or death through ingestion, inhalation or skin absorption. |
Typical Hazardous Products
Automotive products —Gasoline, motor oil, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, car wax, car cleaners, lead-acid batteries, brake fluid, transmission fluid.
Home improvement products —Paint, varnish, stain, paint thinner, caulk, adhesive.
Pesticides —Insecticide, insect repellent, weed killer, rodent poison, pet spray and dip, flea collars, mothballs, disinfectant, wood preservative.
Household cleaners —Furniture polish, drain opener, spot remover, tub and tile cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, bleach, ammonia.
Other —Batteries, cosmetics, pool chemicals, shoe polish, lighter fluid, prescription medicines , art and craft materials.
The effects of hazardous substances may be delayed or immediate. Reactions may be acute (such as vomiting or dizziness) or chronic (such as decline in mental alertness, change in behavior, cancer or mutations).
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