Find all of your laboratory and workplace safety supplies at Safety Emporium!

N.O.S.

Glossary Index

NSN

MSDS Topics	Free Sites	FAQ's	Regulations	Glossary	Software	Suppliers
	Books	Forum	Poll	Fun stuff	Quiz	Store
Understand your MSDS with the MS-Demystifier				Search ALL our MSDS info

Definition

A noxious substance is one that is harmful or damaging to living things. A good synonym is deleterious. See also the OSHA definition of hazardous.

Do not confuse this term with obnoxious which means unpleasant, disagreeable, nasty, offensive, nauseating etc.

Signs, training materials and supplies from Safety Emporium can help ensure a safe and healthy workplace.

Additional Info

Care should always be taken when working with noxious substances. Follow correct procedures at all times.

"Noxious" often appears paired with the word chemical as in "noxious chemical". The term "noxious atmosphere" refers to a contaminated gaseous environment such as airborne asbestos particles or sulphur dioxide gas. The term noxious often appears in the phrase "noxious fumes", as well.

SDS Relevance

Every noxious material should have Safety Data Sheet describing the properties of that material, ways in which it is noxious, and a description of how to prevent and treat the damage the material could do to humans. In general, the greatest threat from noxious substances is inhalation, so engineering controls such as a fume hood and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a respirator are often recommended in Section 8 (exposure controls/personal protection) of the SDS. Ingestion is also another possible route of entry into the body.

Regulations governing the carriage of chemicals by ship are contained in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution from Ships, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto (MARPOL). There is a chance you may see this term listed under under the non-mandatory Section 14 (toxicological information) of the SDS. MARPOL Annex II list four specific categories of noxious liquids: Categories X, Y, Z, and Other Substances.

Further Reading

• The US Coast Guard requires Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plans are required for ships carrying noxious liquid substances.
• MARPOL Annex II- Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk describes four categories of noxious substances in marine transport.
• Noxious Liquid Substances and Dangerous Chemicals at Transport Canada.
• Criminal use/possesion of noxious substances for the state of Maine. Many government jurisdictions have similar statutes governing items such as "stink bombs" or other deliberate nuisance odors.

See also: corrosive, poison, toxic.

Additional definitions from Google and OneLook.

Entry last updated: Friday, January 6, 2023. This page is copyright 2000-2025 by ILPI. Unauthorized duplication or posting on other web sites is expressly prohibited. Send suggestions, comments, and new entry desires (include the URL if applicable) to us by email.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.