Final answer:
The three main types of environmental health hazards are physical (e.g., tsunamis), chemical (e.g., lead in water), and biological (e.g., E. coli outbreak). Each has distinct impacts on human health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Environmental Health Hazards and Examples
There are three main types of environmental health hazards: physical, chemical, and biological. Physical hazards include natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, which can lead to injury and property damage. Chemical hazards are represented by exposure to pollutants such as heavy metals and pesticides, which can have toxic effects on health. Biological hazards involve exposure to pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can cause diseases like tuberculosis or malaria.
Example of Each Environmental Health Hazard
Physical Hazard: A natural disaster, such as a tsunami, causes destruction and increases injury risks.
Chemical Hazard: Lead contamination in drinking water from old plumbing systems, leads to health issues like cognitive deficits in children.
Biological Hazard: An outbreak of E. coli from contaminated food sources, causing severe gastrointestinal illness.