Which hazards are included in the SARA 311/312 classification?

The SARA 311/312 classification specifically focuses on categorizing hazardous materials based on their immediate and long-term health effects. In this context, acute hazards are associated with the short-term effects that a substance can have following a brief exposure—these can be serious or life-threatening. Chronic hazards refer to long-term effects stemming from prolonged exposure, which might not be evident immediately but can lead to significant health issues over time, such as cancer or other chronic illnesses. Flammability is another critical aspect; this indicates how readily a substance can ignite and cause fires, which poses immediate risks to health and safety.

This classification system is vital for ensuring that organizations manage and communicate health and safety risks effectively, particularly in environments that handle hazardous materials. It helps in regulatory compliance and in informing emergency planning and response actions by providing a clear and systematic approach to classifying hazards.