What type of OSHA health hazard can lead to chemical burns?

Corrosives are substances that can cause destruction of living tissue or severe corrosion of material upon contact. This characteristic is particularly dangerous in the workplace, as it can result in chemical burns, which occur when corrosive materials contact the skin or eyes. Corrosives can include strong acids, bases, and certain types of cleaning agents that have the potential to damage tissues. Recognizing and understanding corrosive materials are crucial for maintaining health and safety standards in environments where hazardous substances are present.

In contrast, explosives are materials that can undergo a rapid reaction producing gas and heat, which typically presents a risk of explosion but is not associated with chemical burns. Respiratory toxins are harmful substances that can affect the lungs and overall health when inhaled, but they do not cause chemical burns directly. Dermatoxins, although they suggest a harmful effect on the skin, are more focused on toxic effects that may result in irritation or systemic toxicity rather than the immediate harmful reaction like that of corrosives. Understanding the properties of these hazards is essential for ensuring proper safety measures are in place.