Infectious agents, oncogenic viruses, and recombinant DNA are all considered ______________ hazards.

• A. Chemical
• B. Physical
• C. Biological
• D. Radiation

Answer: (C)

Biological hazards are hazards arising from living organisms or their genetic material. Infectious agents fall squarely into this category because they can cause disease. Oncogenic viruses are also biological hazards since they are viruses that can contribute to cancer in hosts. Recombinant DNA represents manipulated genetic material derived from living organisms, which can pose biosafety concerns in ways that are distinct from chemicals, physical hazards, or radiation. In a lab safety framework, these items are grouped with other biohazards and managed under biosafety guidelines to prevent exposure and unintended effects. They are not chemical hazards, physical hazards, or radiation hazards.