Page 207 - IGC BOOK

Gases

A gas is a state of matter which will expand to occupy the space in which it is enclosed. Gases are
produced during chemical process involving combustion or due to reaction of chemical substances.
E.g. Chlorine, methane, carbon monoxide.

Mists

Mists are tiny liquid droplets, becomes airborne during mechanical force e.g. spray paint.

Vapours

Vapours can be condensed to a liquid by increasing its pressure without reducing its temperature.
E.g. Vapour given off by petrol when the container lid is opened.

Liquids

Liquids retain constant volume but don’t have a fixed shape. Liquid substances remain liquid at
normal temperature and pressure. There many chemicals used in the workplace are harmful are
present in the form of liquid. E.g. Acids, corrosives or organic solvents.

Forms of Biological Agents

Biological

Biological hazards results in ill health from exposure to harmful micro-organisms, as this can enter
the body through various routes resulting in infection, acute or chronic diseases. The biological
agents in the form of Bacterial, Virus and Fungi.

Bacteria

Bacteria are single celled organisms. E.g. Leptospira, spread through urine of infected animals,
which can get into water or soil, as this can get contacted with humans when exposed to
contaminated water or soil, then the bacteria enters into the body through mouth, cut skin.

Virus

An infectious agent, that can multiply on living cells. E.g. Hepatitis B when exposed to contaminated
blood or through body fluids.

Fungi

Fungi is a micro-organism which reproduces by producing spores which may travel in the air or
through water. Fungi are decomposers in the eco systems. E.g. yeast, mushroom and moulds.

ENSIGN| Unit IG2 – Element 7 – Chemical and Biological 2
Agents