What type of biological hazard might healthcare workers encounter?

Healthcare workers are particularly at risk of encountering biological hazards due to their close contact with patients and potentially infectious materials. Contact with infectious waste, which includes items like used needles, bandages, and other bodily fluids or tissues that may carry pathogens, poses a significant risk of disease transmission. This type of hazard requires strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines, such as proper disposal methods, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintaining good hygiene practices.

In contrast, while radiation exposure, toxic chemical exposure, and mechanical injuries can certainly pose risks in healthcare settings, they do not fall under the category of biological hazards. Each of those risks is addressed through different safety practices and controls tailored to mitigate their specific dangers. In summary, the risk of contact with infectious waste is a primary concern for healthcare workers dealing directly with biological hazards.