A hazardous substance can be any substance, whether solid, liquid or gas, that may cause harm to your health.

Hazardous substances are classified on the basis of their potential health effects, whether acute (immediate) or chronic (long-term).

Dangerous goods are classified on the basis of immediate physical or chemical effects, such as fire, explosion, corrosion and poisoning. An accident involving dangerous goods could seriously damage property or the environment.

Harm to health may happen suddenly (acute), such as dizziness, nausea and itchy eyes or skin; or it may happen gradually over years (chronic), such as dermatitis or cancer. Some people can be more susceptible than others.

We use hazardous substances and dangerous goods almost every day of our lives. It may be antiseptic for a cut, paint for the walls, or a cleaning product for the bathroom. While they may seem harmless, even these ordinary things can make you very sick if they are not used properly.