Appendix D: Glossary

A

absorbent material

Commercially packaged clay, kitty litter, or other material used to soak up liquid hazardous materials.

absorption

Penetration of a substance across a biologic barrier (such as the skin) and into either the lymphatic system or bloodstream.

accumulative effect

The effect of a chemical substance on a biologic system when the substance is being absorbed at a rate that exceeds the body's ability to eliminate it from the system. Excessive accumulation of the substance in the system can lead to toxicity.

acid

Any compound containing hydrogen replaceable by metals. and having a pH of zero to 6. Strong acids in the pH range of zero to 2 are corrosive and will cause chemical burns to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes. Acids turn litmus red.

See also pH.

See also strong acids.

acid gas

A gas that forms an acid when dissolved in water.

acidosis

A pathologic condition resulting from accumulation of acid in. or loss of base from, the body.

acrid

Having a biting taste: sharp; pungent.

active ingredient

The component that actually performs the primary function of a product. Products generally contain both active and inert ingredients. and both may be harmful. For example. insecticides in spray cans contain both chemicals having pesticidal action (active) and propellent gas (inert). Active ingredients are listed on product labels as percentage by weight or as pounds per gallon of concentrate.

acute

Refers to severe symptoms and a rapid onset and progressive change to an organism leading...