Evaluating the extent to which chemical and physical agents contribute to impaired mental and cognitive functions. Understanding the adverse effects of physical and chemical agents in mental and cognitive functions.
The chemical and physical environments can interfere with cognitive functions in several ways. Exposure to chemical substances such as metals and organic solvents can damage the central nervous system and impair mental functions. Physical factors that affect cognitive function include noise, heat, cold, vibration and light. These can be a particular problem in schools and the workplace, impairing learning and memory.