Final answer:
The phrase 'it is hazardous to exceed the maximum dose' warns of the dangers of consuming more than the recommended amount of a substance, as this can lead to an overdose and serious health consequences. It underscores the principle that the toxicity of a substance is dependent on its dosage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "it is hazardous to exceed the maximum dose" means that it is dangerous to take more than the recommended or prescribed amount of a substance, such as a drug or chemical. This is because the dosage determines whether a substance will be a poison or a remedy. While a small amount of a substance can be safe or even beneficial, taking too much can cause severe health problems or even death. This concept is commonly summarized by the saying "the dose makes the poison".
When it comes to medicines, both prescription or over-the-counter, and substances like illegal drugs, exceeding the maximum dose can lead to an overdose. This can have serious or lethal consequences. For instance, exceeding the 99th percentile of 1-hour daily maximum concentrations, averaged over 3 years for environmental pollutants is considered critical and typically not to be exceeded more than once per year to maintain health and safety.