Final answer:
A hazardous location is one where combustible dust is present, which can cause fires or explosions. Asbestos is an example of a hazardous compound that can cause lung cancer when inhaled. Radioactive substances and other hazardous wastes also present health risks in certain conditions, especially when inhaled in dust form.
Step-by-step explanation:
A location is hazardous because of the presence of combustible dust. In many industries, such as manufacturing and energy production, dust can accumulate and present a risk of fire or explosion if it comes into contact with an ignition source. Combustible dusts are made up of fine particles that can burn or explode when they are dispersed in the air in sufficient concentrations. Sources of combustible dust can include wood, coal, plastics, biofuels, certain metals, and various organic materials such as grain, flour, or sugar.
Asbestos is a hazardous compound that was once used extensively in both industrial and domestic settings, for example, as insulation for pipes in oil-refining plants. Its use has been largely discontinued due to the significant health risks it poses, primarily lung cancer, when its fibers become airborne and are inhaled.
Similarly, indoor air pollution can originate from biological sources, and even small amounts of alpha-emitting radioactive substances in soil and minerals can pose health hazards when accumulated in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces. Although many of these substances are relatively safe to handle, inhaling radioactive dust is very dangerous as it can lead to serious internal radiation exposure.
Characteristic hazardous wastes as classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) are substances that are particularly dangerous because they are toxic, corrosive, flammable, or reactive. Facilities that handle such materials must therefore be aware of the potential risks and implement safety protocols to prevent accidents or health issues.