What is a key characteristic of hazardous materials?

A key characteristic of hazardous materials is that they can pose risks to health or the environment. This definition encompasses a wide range of substances, including liquids, solids, and gases, and acknowledges that hazardous materials can lead to adverse effects on human health, such as acute or chronic illness, as well as environmental harm, including contamination of air, water, and soil.

This understanding is critical for professionals who handle or transport hazardous materials, as it drives the regulations, handling procedures, and safety training required to mitigate these risks. Recognizing the potential dangers associated with these materials is essential in ensuring safe practices in storage, transport, and emergency response.

In contrast, while some hazardous materials may indeed be solid or stored under refrigeration, these characteristics do not universally apply. Additionally, hazardous materials can be found in various quantities, and there is no minimum threshold that defines a substance as hazardous based solely on the amount present. Therefore, focusing on the risk they pose provides a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of what constitutes a hazardous material.