Health hazard
Health hazard
Health hazard (/ˈhɛlθ ˈhæzərd/) is a term used to describe any biological, chemical, or physical property that may have a direct adverse effect on the health of any living organism, particularly humans.
Etymology
The term "health hazard" is derived from the Old English words "hǣlth" (health) and "hæzard" (chance, risk). It was first used in the late 19th century to describe conditions or substances that pose a risk to health.
Definition
A health hazard includes substances, conditions or actions that can cause adverse health effects. These can range from minor effects such as skin irritation or eye discomfort, to more serious and even fatal conditions like cancer or cardiovascular disease. Health hazards can be found in various environments, including the workplace, home, or public spaces.
Types of Health Hazards
There are several types of health hazards, including:
- Chemical hazards: These are substances that can cause harm to the body through chemical reactions, either immediately or over time. Examples include toxic substances, irritants, and carcinogens.
- Biological hazards: These are living organisms or their products that can cause harm to human health. Examples include bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
- Physical hazards: These are factors within the environment that can harm the body without necessarily touching it. Examples include radiation, noise, and temperature extremes.
- Ergonomic hazards: These are hazards related to the physical position or working conditions that can cause harm to the body. Examples include repetitive movements, manual handling, poor body positioning, and working with vibrating equipment.
Related Terms
- Occupational hazard: A risk or danger inherent in certain occupations which increases the chances of certain health conditions or accidents.
- Risk assessment: The process of evaluating the potential risks that may be involved in a projected activity or undertaking.
- Safety standard: A set of criteria for the methods of production and design of products to ensure safety.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Health hazard
- Wikipedia's article - Health hazard
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