The process of taking in materials through the skin or eyes is called:

• A. Ingestion
• B. Absorption
• C. Inhalation
• D. Digestion

Answer: (B)

Absorption is the process of taking in materials through the skin or eyes. In hazmat exposure, this route means a chemical passes through the skin or mucous membranes of the eyes into the bloodstream. This differs from ingestion (swallowing and processing in the digestive tract) and inhalation (breathing in a substance into the lungs). Digestion specifically refers to how the body breaks down and processes substances in the GI system, not how chemicals get into the body through skin or eyes. The extent of dermal or ocular absorption depends on the chemical’s properties and the condition of the skin, which is why protective gear like gloves and goggles is critical to minimize this exposure pathway.