Which of the following is considered a common biological hazard in the workplace?

In the context of workplace hazards, biological hazards are typically defined as any biological substances that pose a threat to the health of living organisms, primarily humans. Common examples of biological hazards include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other living organisms that can cause disease. Poisonous plants fall under this category because they contain toxins that can lead to allergic reactions or other health issues if humans come into contact with them or ingest them.

By contrast, electric fields, heat stress, and diesel exhaust do not fit the definition of biological hazards. Electric fields are a type of physical hazard related to electromagnetic radiation. Heat stress refers to physiological responses of the body to excessive heat, which is classified as a physical environmental hazard. Diesel exhaust, while potentially harmful due to its chemical components, is categorized as a chemical hazard rather than a biological one. Consequently, poisonous plants represent a legitimate biological hazard that can be encountered in various workplace settings and can pose significant health risks to employees.