In the context of safety, what does 'hazardous' mean?

In the context of safety, 'hazardous' specifically refers to a product or substance that has the potential to cause injury or harm to individuals, property, or the environment. This definition encompasses a wide range of materials, from chemicals and pharmaceuticals to everyday household items that may present risks if not handled properly. It emphasizes the inherent risks associated with certain substances or products that can lead to various safety issues, making this understanding crucial in fields such as occupational health and safety, environmental protection, and public health.

Other options do not encapsulate the specific dangers associated with hazardous materials. For instance, simply being "not approved for public use" does not necessarily indicate that a product is hazardous; rather, it may just indicate regulatory concerns. Similarly, classifying something as a "commonly used household item" does not address its potential risks. Lastly, a substance being "hard to access" does not align with the definition of hazardous, which is centered around the potential for harm rather than its availability or accessibility. The focus on potential injury or harm is what makes the chosen answer the most fitting in the context of safety.