Which route of entry allows chemicals to enter the body through the airways?

Inhalation is the route of entry that allows chemicals to enter the body specifically through the airways. When a person breathes in, air passes through the nose or mouth and travels down the trachea into the lungs. If the air contains hazardous chemicals or pollutants, these substances can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in the lungs. This route is of particular concern in occupational health because many harmful substances, such as fumes, vapors, and aerosols, can readily enter the respiratory system, leading to potential health risks, including respiratory damage and systemic toxicity.

Other routes of entry, such as ingestion or absorption through the skin, are related to different mechanisms and environments. Ingestion involves swallowing substances, while absorption refers to chemicals entering the body through the skin or mucous membranes. Injection, on the other hand, involves a direct entry through a puncture or break in the skin, often via needles or sharp objects. Each route presents unique risks and requires appropriate safety measures to prevent exposure.