Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Practice Exam

Which of the following air pollutants is known to cause only acute health effects?

1. Ozone

2. Lead

3. Carbon monoxide

4. Particulate matter

The correct answer is: Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide is widely recognized for causing only acute health effects due to its properties and the mechanisms by which it affects the body. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is primarily produced from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. When inhaled, carbon monoxide binds with hemoglobin in the blood to form carboxyhemoglobin, reducing the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. This can lead to immediate and serious health consequences, particularly in high concentrations, such as confusion, loss of consciousness, and can even be fatal. While other pollutants also exert harmful effects, they often have both acute and chronic implications. For example, ozone can cause respiratory irritation and exacerbate asthma in the short term, but long-term exposure can also lead to chronic lung diseases. Similarly, lead exposure can cause immediate effects, particularly in high doses, but chronic exposure is well-documented to lead to neurological issues, developmental delays, and cardiovascular problems over time. Particulate matter can cause acute reactions like respiratory issues but is also associated with long-term health problems including heart disease and lung conditions. Understanding the distinction between acute and chronic health effects is critical for managing air quality and protecting public health, particularly in contexts where exposure levels can vary significantly.