Final answer:
The primary health hazard posed by flammable liquids is their ability to ignite and cause fires, potentially causing burns, injuries, or deaths. Proper handling and storage are crucial to prevent such incidents and mitigate health risks associated with exposure to harmful vapors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary health hazard posed by flammable liquids is the potential to ignite and cause a fire, which can lead to burns, injuries, or even fatalities. Flammable liquids have flash points below 60 °C and include substances like used solvents and waste oils. These substances can create an explosive mixture when vapors combine with air and find an ignition source.
According to the National Fire Protection Agency's (NFPA) 704 Hazard Identification System, the red diamond indicates the level of fire hazard related to the substance's flash point. Organic solvent vapors, being heavier than air, can travel and accumulate, presenting a fire risk even in areas remote from the original source. It's critical to handle such materials with care, avoiding exposure to sparks, open flames, and high temperatures.
Furthermore, some hazardous flammable chemicals like halogenated hydrocarbons are not only a fire risk but also pose significant health risks, such as being potential carcinogens and causing severe liver damage. Therefore, reducing exposure and following safety procedures, including using containment methods like fume hoods, is important for health and safety.