Final answer:
Asphyxiants displace oxygen in the air, leading to hypoxia, unconsciousness, and potential death. Understanding the hazards of substances like hydrogen cyanide and environmental contaminants is crucial for preventing harmful effects on health and safety.
Explanation:
Asphyxiants are substances that can displace oxygen in the air, leading to hypoxia when inhaled in high concentrations. This deprivation of oxygen can cause unconsciousness and even death, particularly affecting tissues like the central nervous system and the heart.
A well-known hazardous compound that acts as an asphyxiant is hydrogen cyanide, which is a gas and can be deadly if inhaled. Environmental contaminants and chemical substances like carbon monoxide can also act as chemical hazards, causing harm to living organisms by reducing oxygen levels or inducing toxic effects.
It is crucial to understand the risks associated with these substances to prevent accidents and protect health and safety in various environments.
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