When evaluating potential hazards, which of the following should be prioritized?

Prioritizing the properties of the chemicals involved when evaluating potential hazards is crucial because understanding these properties provides critical insight into how the chemicals behave under various conditions. Chemical properties such as flammability, reactivity, toxicity, and environmental impact are essential for predicting potential risks associated with their use and handling. By focusing on these properties, safety professionals can identify specific hazards that may arise from chemical reactions or exposure scenarios, allowing for informed decisions about risk management and necessary precautions.

Evaluating historical accident reports can provide context about past incidents, while the reactions of workers can indicate concerns or frustrations; however, these factors are not as fundamental to understanding chemical hazards as the intrinsic properties themselves. Additionally, while productivity is important for operational efficiency, it should not take precedence over safety considerations. Understanding the properties of the chemicals provides the foundation necessary for developing effective safety protocols and risk assessments.