Stress may cause us to:

Stress can indeed lead to a physical response where the muscles may tense up as a reaction to the stressor, but the idea that stress can lead to loosening muscles to an unsafe degree is not well supported. In fact, stress typically results in muscle tension because of the body's fight-or-flight response. During times of stress, the body prepares to respond to a threat, which often leads to increased muscle tightness rather than relaxation.

The correct understanding of stress in relation to physical and psychological responses would be reflected more accurately in the idea that stress might cause hyper-awareness of warning signs, concentration issues, or the continuation of ineffective behaviors due to the impact stress has on cognitive functions. These responses can be detrimental, as heightened stress affects decision-making and awareness, leading to potential hazards in emergency situations. This reinforces the need for effective stress management strategies during hazardous waste operations or emergency responses.