What is the term used for a substance likely to cause death or injury due to its hazardous nature?

The term used for a substance that poses a significant risk of causing death or injury due to its hazardous nature is "hazardous material." This term encompasses a wide range of substances, including chemicals, waste products, and other materials that have the potential to cause harm to humans, animals, or the environment.

Hazardous materials are classified based on their properties and the risks they present. They can be toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive in certain conditions, all of which contribute to their designation as hazardous. Understanding the characteristics and potential dangers of hazardous materials is essential for ensuring safety during handling, storage, and disposal processes in various industries.

While the other terms might describe specific aspects of hazardous substances, they do not encapsulate the full range of materials that can be harmful. For example, a "dangerous compound" is a more generic phrase, and while a "toxin" refers specifically to a biological poison, it does not cover all hazardous materials. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is an organization responsible for ensuring workplace safety, but it does not define a substance itself. Therefore, the most accurate term in the context of identifying substances that can cause serious health risks is hazardous material.