Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Which category is assigned to infectious substances affecting humans?

1. Category B

2. Category A

3. Category C

4. Category D

The correct answer is: Category A

In the context of infectious substances that affect humans, Category A is the correct classification. This category includes infectious materials that can cause substantial harm to individuals or public health and therefore require stringent measures for transportation, handling, and treatment. Examples of Category A materials include viruses like Ebola and bacteria that may cause severe disease or pose a serious risk to both public health and safety. Because of the potential for widespread infection and the serious consequences associated with these substances, strict regulations govern their handling and transportation to prevent any exposure. The other categories are assigned based on risk levels and pathogenicity but do not include the most dangerous infectious substances that pose a high threat to health. Therefore, Category A is specifically designated for those agents presenting the highest risk due to their potential for significant health impacts.