What determines if a substance is poisonous or not?
Table of Contents
What determines if a substance is poisonous or not?
The toxicity of a substance depends on three factors: its chemical structure, the extent to which the substance is absorbed by the body, and the body’s ability to detoxify the substance (change it into less toxic substances) and eliminate it from the body.
Do all substances have the potential of being toxic?
All substances have the potential to be toxic if given to humans and other living organisms in certain conditions and at certain doses or levels. For example, one or two aspirins may be good for you, but taking a bottle of aspirin may be harmful.
How does the human body absorb toxic substances?
Chemicals can enter and irritate the nose, air passages and lungs. They can become deposited in the airways or be absorbed by the lungs into the bloodstream. The blood can then carry these substances to the rest of the body.
Which age group is generally most susceptible to the ill effects of hazardous chemicals?
The factors that affect their susceptibility include their stage of development and level of activity in the environment. The fetus is the most susceptible because their developing organs may be permanently damaged. Similarly, children, especially from one to six years of age, are also in a stage of rapid development.
Which factor determines whether a liquid is flammable or not?
The factor that determines whether or not a liquid is flammable is the classification of their flashpoints, which is the lowest temperature at which the liquid will produce enough vapor to start burning.
How do you know if your being poisoned?
Moderate signs of poisoning in humans include the following: Blurred vision. Confusion and disorientation. Difficulty in breathing.
Which regulation assess the risk of hazardous substances?
The COSHH Regulations
The COSHH Regulations require employers to assess the risk to their employees, and to prevent or adequately control those risks. Sometimes, it’s easy to judge the amount of exposure to substances and decide what you can do about it.
What are the two most common ways for harmful substances to enter the body?
How Chemicals Enter the Body
- Inhalation – gases and airborne particulate can be breathed in through your nose or mouth.
- Absorption – chemicals, including dust, smoke or vapors, can enter your body through your skin or eyes.
- Ingestion – chemicals can enter your body through your mouth.
Why are children susceptible to toxic substances?
However, certain scientific data indicate that children are more susceptible to toxic exposure than adults because they have proportionally more intake of food contaminants, active developmental processes, multiple exposure pathways and susceptible socio-behavioral activities.