How is the hazard level for a substance with the potential to cause immediate effects generally rated?

The hazard level for a substance that has the potential to cause immediate effects is typically rated as a lower number on the hazard scale, with 1 indicating a higher level of danger. This rating reflects the urgency and severity of the potential harm that the substance can present. Substances rated at this level are usually highly hazardous and can lead to acute health effects, requiring immediate action to protect individuals who may be exposed.

In contrast, higher numbers such as 2, 3, or 5 would suggest a lesser degree of immediate danger or a different type of hazard that might not require as immediate a response. The system is designed to prioritize attention toward substances that pose the most significant risk of immediate adverse effects, making the lower number essential in the appropriate classification of hazards. Thus, a rating of 1 signifies that the substance poses a significant risk that must be addressed without delay.