HAZMAT Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following agents will affect human health through allergic reactions and other ways?

1. Chemical agents

2. Biological agents

3. Physical agents

4. Environmental agents

The correct answer is: Biological agents

Biological agents are organisms or substances derived from organisms that can cause harm to human health primarily through infection, allergies, or other immune responses. Examples include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and allergens like pollen or certain molds. When exposed to biological agents, individuals can experience a variety of health effects, including allergic reactions, which happen when the immune system responds excessively to a normally harmless substance. These reactions can result in symptoms such as sneezing, itching, respiratory issues, and even more severe allergic responses in some cases. This option highlights the unique role of biological agents in terms of their ability to trigger allergic responses not linked to other categories. Chemical agents are often associated with toxic effects rather than immune responses, while physical agents focus on energy forms (like radiation or noise) causing harm through physical means. Environmental agents encompass a broader scope of influences on health but do not specifically relate to the immune response mechanisms like biological agents do.