In the context of hazardous materials, what is considered a "toxic" substance?

A "toxic" substance is defined as one that can cause harm or adverse health effects upon exposure. This means that when individuals come into contact with, ingest, or inhale such a substance, they may experience negative health consequences, which can range from mild irritations to severe illness or even death. Understanding toxicity is crucial in hazardous materials management because it helps identify risks and enforce safety protocols to protect individuals and the environment.

The correct understanding of toxic substances is rooted in their potential to negatively impact health, emphasizing the importance of safety measures when handling or storing these materials. Other options listed do not accurately reflect the definition of a toxic substance. For example, a substance posing no health risk would not be classified as toxic at all, while a combustible substance may present different hazards such as fire risk rather than toxicity. Lastly, a substance that is beneficial for health inherently contradicts the idea of toxicity, as it implies a positive effect rather than a harmful one.