Which chemical group is associated with the potential to cause severe allergic reactions?

• A. Asphyxiants
• B. Sensitizers
• C. Irritants
• D. Convulsants

Answer: (B)

Sensitizers are chemicals that can trigger an allergic reaction in people who have been exposed before. They may not cause noticeable effects on first contact, but after sensitization, subsequent exposures can provoke severe reactions, such as skin dermatitis or bronchial asthma, even at low doses. That’s why this group is the one associated with the potential for severe allergic reactions. In contrast, irritants simply irritate tissues and cause redness or pain on contact; asphyxiants pose a suffocation risk by displacing or absorbing oxygen; convulsants can induce seizures. Understanding sensitizers helps you focus on reducing exposure and using proper controls to prevent sensitization and subsequent allergic reactions.