Chemical hazards refer to substances or materials that have the potential to cause harm to human health, the environment, or property due to their toxic, flammable, explosive, or reactive properties.

Barry Commoner focused on the social and political aspects of chemical hazards, emphasizing the need for public participation and environmental justice in decision-making processes related to chemical management.

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy, which occurred on December 2-3, 1984, is considered one of the world's worst industrial disasters. A pesticide plant owned by Union Carbide Corporation leaked toxic gases, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives and causing severe health issues for survivors.

Gas disasters refer to incidents involving the release of hazardous gases, such as toxic, flammable, or asphyxiating gases, which can result in severe health impacts, explosions, or asphyxiation.