Forms of Hazardous Chemicals
You might think that the chemicals which apply to the rule are those in liquid, gas or particulate form. But, the standard’s definition of “chemical” is much broader than that commonly used. According to the HCS, chemicals that apply may exist in one of many forms:
Dusts
Dusts ‐ are finely divided particles. Example ‐ wood dust.
Fumes
Fumes ‐ are even smaller particles usually formed when solid metal is heated and vaporized, and then condenses as tiny particles.
Fibers
Fibers ‐ are similar to dusts but are of an elongated shape. Examples ‐ asbestos and fiberglass.
Mists
Mists ‐ are liquid droplets that have been sprayed into the atmosphere.
Vapors
Vapors ‐ are gases formed when liquid evaporates.
Gases
Gases ‐ are substances that are normally airborne at room temperature. A vapor is the gaseous phase of a substance which is a normally a liquid or solid at room temperature
Solids
Solids ‐ such as metal, treated wood, plastic.
Liquids
Liquids ‐ the most common form in the workplace.
