In characterizing a chemical's hazard, what is often considered?

The characterization of a chemical's hazard involves evaluating its inherent properties, particularly its toxicity and flammability. These two aspects are crucial because they directly determine how a chemical can pose risks to human health and safety, as well as its potential to cause fires or explosions. Toxicity refers to the degree to which a substance can harm humans and the environment, while flammability indicates how easily a substance can ignite and sustain combustion.

The physical state of the material is certainly important in understanding the risks associated with handling a chemical, but it is not sufficient on its own to fully characterize its hazard. Similarly, while the location of storage is relevant in terms of safety practices and emergency response, it does not define the chemical's intrinsic hazards. The day of the week it is handled is not a relevant factor in determining the chemical's risks. Thus, focusing on toxicity and flammability provides a comprehensive basis for assessing chemical hazards.