What type of hazards do explosions and fire fall under?

Explosions and fire are classified as physical hazards because they involve energy release that can cause injury or damage. Physical hazards encompass a wide range of dangers associated with the physical processes of materials, including thermal hazards (like fire), mechanical hazards (such as explosions), and structural hazards (which can involve collapsing structures).

In the case of explosions, there is a rapid release of energy that creates pressure waves and can propel debris, potentially harming anyone nearby. Fires also represent a physical hazard, as they can cause burns, smoke inhalation, and further destruction of property. Therefore, recognizing explosions and fire as physical hazards is crucial in implementing the right safety measures and protocols in environments that may present these risks.

Other choices relate to different types of hazards; for instance, engulfment hazards pertain to situations where a worker could be engulfed by materials such as soil or sand, corrosive hazards involve substances that can damage or destroy living tissue or materials, and biological hazards refer to exposure to harmful organisms or their toxins. Understanding these categories helps in evaluating risk and ensuring safety in various environments, especially confined spaces.