Which hazard listed can lead to explosive reactions?

Prepare for the HAZWOPER 40-hour Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Get test ready!

Oxidizers are chemical substances that can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials, meaning they can significantly increase the risk of explosive reactions. When oxidizers are present, they can react violently, especially when they come into contact with flammable materials or under certain conditions such as heat or pressure. This capability is what makes them particularly hazardous in environments where other reactive substances are present.

In contrast, while pyrophoric substances ignite spontaneously in air and flammable materials have a high potential to catch fire, they do not necessarily lead to explosive reactions in the same way that oxidizers do. Compressed gases, although they can be hazardous and may contribute to explosions if they escape and ignite or if the container is compromised, are not classified as direct causes of explosive reactions simply by their nature. Thus, the distinct characteristics of oxidizers, such as their role in combustion, directly relate to the potential for explosive outcomes in a chemical context.

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