Final answer:
Hazardous chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin are categorized based on their toxicity levels, ranging from highly toxic substances causing immediate harm to non-toxic ones that pose no risk. Examples include corrosive poisons, metabolic poisons, persistent organic pollutants, radioactive materials, and toxic heavy metals, all of which can lead to serious health issues if absorbed through the skin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The general groups of hazardous chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin include the following:
- Group 1: Chemicals that are highly toxic and can cause immediate harm.
- Group 2: Chemicals that are moderately toxic and can cause harm over time.
- Group 3: Chemicals that are minimally toxic and have low potential for harm.
- Group 4: Chemicals that are non-toxic and pose no harm to humans.
Examples of these hazardous substances are corrosive poisons (strong acids or bases), metabolic poisons (like carbon monoxide and cyanide), persistent organic pollutants (such as DDT and PCBs), radioactive materials, and toxic heavy metals (like mercury and lead).
Each of these substances has the potential to be absorbed through the skin, leading to various health issues, including neurological, respiratory, and developmental problems. It is critical to handle them with proper safety equipment and protocols to prevent skin contact.