Introduction to Chemical Hazards & Toxic Substances

OSHA uses the term general industry to refer to all industries not included in agriculture, construction, or maritime. General industries are regulated by OSHA general industry standards, directives, and standard interpretations.

According to OSHA, approximately 32 million workers work with or are potentially exposed to one or more chemical hazards. With an estimated 650,000 existing chemical products and hundreds more being introduced each year, this poses a serious hazard to workers. The World Health Organization reports that about 47,000 people die every year from chemical poisoning.

Exposure to dangerous chemicals can result in health hazards such as cancer, respiratory disease, and skin allergies. Some chemicals may even have the potential to cause fire, explosions, and other serious accidents.

To learn more about Industrial Chemical Hazards visit our Industrial Chemical Hazards & Toxic Substances Online Training web page.