Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Practice Test

The correct answer highlights a significant risk related to steam systems: scalds from high-temperature steam. Steam is a substance that can easily reach temperatures well above the boiling point of water, often exceeding 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit) under pressure. When steam escapes from pipes or other elements of the system, it can cause severe burns or scalds upon contact with skin, resulting in serious injuries. This is an important consideration in industries where steam is commonly used for heating, processing, or power generation.

While chemical burns, electrical shocks, and mechanical hazards are relevant dangers in various industrial contexts, they are not the primary concern specific to steam systems. Chemical burns would more typically relate to the handling of hazardous substances, electrical shocks pertain to issues with electrical systems, and mechanical hazards involve risks from machinery and equipment rather than the steam itself. Thus, the emphasis on the risk of scalds from high-temperature steam is justified, making it the most relevant hazard associated with steam systems.