The hazards of a chemical are the potential risks

The hazards of a chemical are the potential risks or dangers that the chemical may pose to human health, the environment, or property. Hazard information about a chemical is typically communicated through labeling, safety data sheets (SDSs), and other documents.

Chemical hazards can be categorized into three main types: physical hazards, health hazards, and environmental hazards. 

Physical hazards relate to the physical properties of the chemical and include properties such as flammability, reactivity, explosiveness, and corrosiveness. These hazards can pose a risk of fire, explosion, or other types of physical harm.

Health hazards relate to the potential for a chemical to cause harm to human health. These hazards can be acute, meaning they cause immediate harm, or chronic, meaning they cause harm over a longer period of time. Health hazards can include toxicity, irritation, sensitization, and carcinogenicity.

Environmental hazards relate to the potential for a chemical to cause harm to the environment. These hazards can include effects on water, soil, air quality, and living organisms, and can lead to pollution, bioaccumulation, and other environmental problems.

It's important to understand the hazards of a chemical to ensure safe handling, storage, use, and disposal. Hazard information should be readily available through labels, SDSs, and other documentation, and workers should be trained on how to safely handle chemicals to minimize the risk of harm. Additionally, appropriate personal protective equipment should be used when working with hazardous chemicals.