Chemical compounds have inherent physical and chemical properties that determine the type and severity of hazard they pose. One key property used to assess potential risk is the boiling point, which is the temperature at which a liquid changes into a vapor—specifically, when the vapor pressure of the liquid equals the surrounding atmospheric pressure.
The boiling point is important because it influences how a substance can enter the body. Liquids with a high boiling point tend to remain in liquid form and are more likely to enter the body through skin contact or absorption. In contrast, liquids with a low boiling point readily vaporize at lower temperatures, increasing the likelihood of inhalation exposure as the primary route of entry. Understanding this property helps in assessing exposure risks and implementing appropriate safety controls in the workplace.