Which of the following is an example of a physical hazard in the lab?

Which of the following is an example of a physical hazard in the lab?

• A. High temperatures
• B. Slippery floors or exposed electrical wires
• C. Inhalation of chemicals
• D. Radioactive materials

Answer: (B)

Physical hazards in the lab relate to environmental conditions or situations that can cause harm or injury due to the presence of a physical agent. Slippery floors and exposed electrical wires fall into this category because they can directly lead to accidents, such as slips, trips, falls, or electrical shocks. In contrast, while high temperatures and radioactive materials can also pose significant dangers, they are usually categorized under specific types of hazards (like thermal or radiological hazards, respectively) rather than purely physical. Inhalation of chemicals pertains to chemical hazards, as it involves the exposure to harmful substances rather than a physical condition. Thus, the presence of slippery floors or exposed wires exemplifies a physical hazard more directly affecting the safe navigation and operation within a lab environment.

Physical hazards in the lab relate to environmental conditions or situations that can cause harm or injury due to the presence of a physical agent. Slippery floors and exposed electrical wires fall into this category because they can directly lead to accidents, such as slips, trips, falls, or electrical shocks.

In contrast, while high temperatures and radioactive materials can also pose significant dangers, they are usually categorized under specific types of hazards (like thermal or radiological hazards, respectively) rather than purely physical. Inhalation of chemicals pertains to chemical hazards, as it involves the exposure to harmful substances rather than a physical condition. Thus, the presence of slippery floors or exposed wires exemplifies a physical hazard more directly affecting the safe navigation and operation within a lab environment.