What is the primary hazard associated with steam boilers?

The primary hazard associated with steam boilers is high-pressure steam. This is because steam boilers operate under significant pressure, and if the pressure exceeds the design limits, it can lead to catastrophic failures such as explosions or ruptures. High-pressure steam poses a serious risk not only due to the force it can exert but also because of the extreme temperatures involved. If proper safety measures, such as pressure relief valves and regular maintenance, are not in place, the risk of dangerous situations increases significantly.

While low water conditions in a steam boiler can lead to overheating and damage to the boiler, they are typically monitored closely with proper water level controls. Fuel leaks, while also dangerous, do not directly pertain to the inherent hazards of steam operations; they are more associated with combustion safety. Coolant failures pertain more to systems that require coolant to regulate temperature, which is not the primary concern in steam boiler operations. Therefore, high-pressure steam stands out as the most significant hazard within the context of steam boiler safety.