Hazardous substances

Hazardous substances are materials that pose a risk to human health, safety, or the environment due to their chemical, physical, or biological properties. They may be toxic, corrosive, flammable, explosive, allergenic, or otherwise reactive in ways that create danger if they are used or handled incorrectly. These substances can appear in many different forms – liquids, solids, gases, vapours, dusts, or mists, and the level of hazard often depends on how the substance is used, how people are exposed, and in what quantities it is present.

In both industrial and everyday settings, hazardous substances are more common than many people realize. Workplaces such as laboratories, manufacturing plants, workshops, and cleaning operations frequently handle solvents, acids, fuels, adhesives, and detergents. Even at home, products like bleach, paints, aerosols, batteries, and certain gardening chemicals contain ingredients classified as hazardous. Because these substances are so widespread, understanding their hazards is essential for maintaining safety and preventing long-term harm.

Exposure to hazardous substances can lead to a wide range of health effects. Short-term reactions may include irritation of the eyes, skin, or respiratory system, headaches, dizziness, or nausea. However, repeated or long-term exposure to certain substances can cause more serious outcomes, such as chronic respiratory diseases, organ damage, reproductive issues, or cancer. Beyond human health, hazardous substances can also negatively impact the environment by contaminating water, degrading soil quality, harming wildlife, or contributing to air pollution.