The usual source of oxygen for burning is air. However, oxidizing materials can supply combustible substances with oxygen and support a fire even when air is not present. Some oxidizing materials are also incompatible with non-combustible materials. These oxidizers can undergo dangerous reactions with water, inorganic acids or even other oxidizing materials. Oxidizing materials may be toxic or corrosive.
Corrosive oxidizers can also attack and destroy metal.
The MSDSs and the container labels should explain all of the hazards of the oxidizing materials that you use in the workplace. An example is ammonium perchlorate. This material is a white or colourless, odourless crystals. Ammonium perchlorate can decompose at high temperatures forming toxic gases, such as chlorine, hydrogen chloride and nitrogen oxides. Closed containers or tanks may rupture and explode if heated.