Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What do sensitizers do upon repeated exposure?

1. They strengthen the immune system

2. They cause allergic reactions

3. They prevent inflammation

4. They enhance the body's natural healing

The correct answer is: They cause allergic reactions

Sensitizers are substances that can lead to allergic reactions upon repeated exposure. When an individual is first exposed to a sensitizer, their immune system may recognize it as a foreign substance. During this initial exposure, the body may produce specific antibodies against it. However, upon subsequent exposures, these sensitizers can trigger an immune response, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, or other allergic reactions. This is why sensitizers are particularly concerning in occupational safety and health, as they can negatively impact an individual's health over time due to the body's heightened sensitivity to the substance after the first exposure.