What does ingestion refer to in terms of hazardous material exposure?

Ingestion refers specifically to the process of eating or swallowing substances. When it comes to hazardous material exposure, ingestion can pose serious health risks as it allows harmful chemicals or materials to enter the body directly through the digestive system. This can occur accidentally or deliberately and often involves contaminated food, beverage, or even the accidental swallowing of dangerous substances.

Ingestion is distinct from other forms of exposure such as inhalation—which involves breathing in fumes or vapors—or dermal exposure, which would include using personal protective equipment like gloves. Injection, on the other hand, typically involves a syringe and is not classified as ingestion since it does not involve the digestive system. Understanding these definitions is crucial for recognizing and mitigating the risks associated with hazardous materials.