Which potential hazard is associated with a chemical being explosive?

The classification of a chemical as a potential explosive hazard is accurately categorized under physical hazards. Physical hazards pertain to the inherent properties of a substance that can cause harm in terms of fires, explosions, or structural failures. An explosive chemical can react vigorously under certain conditions, producing gas, heat, and pressure that can lead to significant destructive outcomes.

Understanding that physical hazards relate to the energy release from a chemical reaction helps in recognizing the importance of proper storage, handling, and transportation procedures for such substances. In contrast, health hazards would typically involve chemicals that cause health issues upon exposure, while environmental hazards concern substances that pose risks to ecosystems outside human safety contexts. Additionally, safety hazards generally encompass broader issues of accident prevention and personal safety rather than the specific reactive nature of the substances themselves. Hence, the distinctive characteristic of explosiveness aligns perfectly with the definition of physical hazards.