A chemical that may cause acute or chronic health effects after exposure is referred to as what?

A chemical that may cause acute or chronic health effects after exposure is classified as a health hazard. This term encompasses a wide variety of substances that can lead to adverse health outcomes through various forms of exposure, including inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Understanding the potential health risks associated with certain chemicals is crucial for safety, especially for those working in environments where they may be exposed to such hazards.

Health hazards are important to identify because they dictate the necessary safety measures, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper handling procedures, to prevent exposure and protect the health of workers. This classification applies broadly to chemicals known to impact human health, such as carcinogens, toxic agents, and irritants, whether effects are immediate (acute) or develop over time (chronic).