Final answer:
Physical hazards in the laboratory can be classified as electrical, fire, or mechanical, with the answer being True. Electrical hazards are further categorized into thermal and shock hazards, and their prevention is crucial in laboratory safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to physical hazards in a laboratory environment and whether they can be classified as electrical, fire, or mechanical. The answer is A) True. Physical hazards do indeed encompass these types, among others. Specifically focusing on electrical hazards, there are two main types: thermal hazards and shock hazards. Thermal hazards occur when excessive electric power causes unwanted thermal effects, which might include starting a fire. Conversely, shock hazards arise when electric current passes through a person, with potential effects ranging from painful shocks to fatal electrocution.
It is essential for safety guidelines in laboratories to address these risks by employing various electrical safety systems and devices that aim to prevent both thermal and shock hazards. An example of a thermal hazard is a short circuit, which can quickly elevate the temperature of materials, potentially leading to fires. Therefore, understanding and mitigating these hazards is a critical component of laboratory safety protocols.