How is 'hazardous material' defined?

Hazardous material is defined as any substance that can pose a threat to human health or the environment. This definition encompasses a wide range of materials, including chemicals, mixtures, and wastes that can be harmful due to their toxicity, reactivity, flammability, or corrosiveness. The identification of a substance as hazardous is essential for ensuring safety measures are in place to protect workers, the community, and the ecosystem.

Understanding this definition is crucial in the context of hazardous waste operations, as it guides the management and handling of these materials in compliance with regulations. Identifying hazardous materials early ensures appropriate methods for storage, transport, and disposal are used, minimizing the risk of accidents and adverse health effects.

Other options do not accurately capture the essence of what constitutes a hazardous material. For instance, defining hazardous materials as those that are easy to dispose of overlooks the complexities and risks involved. Similarly, stating that hazardous materials are solely chemicals used in manufacturing processes limits the scope and fails to recognize hazardous waste generated from various sources, including household products and industrial wastes. Lastly, focusing only on solid waste that cannot be recycled excludes many liquid and gaseous substances that can also present hazards. Thus, option A is the most comprehensive and accurate definition of hazardous material.