What health classification is indicated for a material that can cause serious or permanent injury under emergency conditions?

A material that can cause serious or permanent injury under emergency conditions is classified with a Health Rating of 3. This classification indicates a substance that poses significant health risks and can lead to severe effects if there is an exposure during an emergency situation.

Health Rating 3 specifically denotes that exposure may lead to serious damage to health, potentially requiring immediate medical attention and may even be life-threatening, depending on the nature of the exposure. Notably, this classification is designed to help handlers prioritize safety measures and preparedness concerning potentially hazardous materials, thus underscoring the importance of precautionary measures when dealing with such substances.

In contrast, Health Ratings 1 and 2 describe materials that have less severe health impacts, typically resulting in minor illness or injury. Health Rating 4 would refer to materials that pose negligible risks. Therefore, for materials capable of causing serious or permanent injury, a Health Rating of 3 accurately reflects their potential danger in emergency scenarios.