Environmental Hazards
Environmental hazards are threats that harm ecosystems and biomes. Examples include oil spills, deforestation, air pollution, and carbon dioxide buildup. Human exposure to these hazards is typically involuntary.
Types of Environmental Hazards
Environmental hazards can be classified into four types:
- Chemical: Substances that damage humans, animals, or the environment, including pesticides, acids, and poisonous gases.
- Physical: Factors like noise, vibration, extreme temperatures, and radiation that can harm without direct contact.
- Biological: Organic substances (e.g., bacteria, viruses) that pose health risks to living organisms, including medical waste and infectious diseases.
- Psychological: Aspects of work environments that cause mental health issues, such as stress, bullying, and violence.
Environmental Hazard Identification
Identifying environmental hazards involves assessing the likelihood of harm from a stressor. This includes creating exposure models that describe how a hazard moves in the environment and interacts with exposed populations. Measurements of hazard presence and quantity are then compared to reference levels to determine potential risks.
Chemical Hazards
Chemical hazards are substances that significantly harm the environment. They are often toxic to aquatic life, but may not pose an immediate danger to humans. However, certain substances can cause long-term damage or create oxygen depletion in water bodies.
Physical Hazards
Physical hazards can cause harm even without direct contact. Examples include noise, vibration, and extreme temperatures, which can lead to injuries or other physical harm. They are common in industrial and construction settings.
Biological Hazards
Biological hazards include microorganisms, viruses, and toxins that pose health risks to humans and animals. Examples include medical waste, infectious diseases, and allergens. They can cause a wide range of illnesses, from minor infections to life-threatening diseases.