What defines a hazardous material?

A hazardous material is defined as a substance that poses a risk to health, safety, or the environment. This definition encompasses a wide range of materials that can cause harm due to their chemical properties or reactions. These substances can be toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive, meaning they have the potential to cause injury or damage if not handled correctly.

Understanding this definition is crucial for first responders, environmental agencies, and industries that deal with such materials, as it helps in implementing proper safety protocols and regulations to manage risks effectively. Identifying hazardous materials allows for appropriate measures to be taken to mitigate their impact, ensuring the safety of individuals and the environment.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what makes a material hazardous. For instance, materials that are easily transported (A) or those used in manufacturing (C) do not inherently possess hazardous characteristics, as their risks depend on their specific nature and usage. Similarly, biodegradability (D) relates to how a product breaks down in the environment but does not address the potential health and safety risks associated with hazardous substances.