Which term describes physical contact with a hazardous material leading to potential health effects?

The term that describes physical contact with a hazardous material leading to potential health effects is best categorized as human exposure. This term specifically refers to instances where individuals come into contact with hazardous substances, which can occur through various routes such as inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact.

Human exposure encompasses the broader implications of such contact, including the risks and effects on health that may arise from the interaction with hazardous materials. Understanding this concept is crucial for assessing health risks and implementing safety measures in environments where hazardous materials are present.

While terms like "contact exposure" and "direct exposure" could appear relevant, they are typically not used in the context of evaluating the broader health implications associated with exposure to hazardous materials. "Environmental exposure," on the other hand, usually refers to the interaction of humans with hazardous substances present in the environment, which may not always result in direct contact and thus may not reflect the immediate health effects of physical interactions with those materials.