Key Terms

Chemical: An element or a compound produced by chemical reactions on a large scale

for direct industrial and consumer use or for reaction with other chemicals.
Combustible: A material having a flashpoint of 100 degrees F. or above.
Flammable: A material having a flashpoint below 100 degrees F.
HazCom: Hazard Communication Standard.
Inhalation: Breathing in an airborne substance that may be in the form of gases,
fumes, mists, vapors, dusts, or aerosols.
MSDS: Material Safety Data Sheet—It is a document containing the chemical hazard
and safe handling information pertaining to a specific chemical or compound and
is prepared in accordance with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.
OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Training: A course of study in which employees are trained to identify and work safely
with hazardous materials.
Many manufacturers of chemicals include safe handling procedures on labels.
Example:
For instance, if you accidentally spill a strong acid on your hand and the acid
begins to burn your hand it is immediately considered to be acute, and would be
an accident as opposed to an illness effect.
Asbestos is a good example of a chronic health hazard.
Those people who are exposed to asbestos may take
several years to develop serious lung diseases.