How does EPA define hazardous waste?

How does EPA define hazardous waste?

• A. Those that are specifically listed as such
• B. Those that are specifically listed as such, and those that possess hazardous characteristics
• C. Wastes that are not hazardous
• D. Wastes that are ignitable only

Answer: (B)

Under EPA rules, a waste is hazardous if it is either listed by EPA as hazardous or if it exhibits a hazardous characteristic. This means there are two ways a waste can be designated hazardous: it appears on the EPA’s hazardous-waste list, or it isn’t listed but shows one or more hazardous characteristics. The four characteristics are ignitable, corrosive, reactive, and toxic. Ignitable wastes can catch fire easily (flash point under 60°C). Corrosive wastes have extreme pH values, either very acidic or very basic. Reactive wastes can detonate, explode, or vigorously release toxic gases. Toxic wastes contain constituents that can leach out and cause harm, as measured by tests like the TCLP. Because of these two pathways, the correct definition includes both listed wastes and wastes that possess hazardous characteristics. Choices that suggest only listed wastes, or that exclude characteristic wastes, don’t fit the EPA framework.

Under EPA rules, a waste is hazardous if it is either listed by EPA as hazardous or if it exhibits a hazardous characteristic. This means there are two ways a waste can be designated hazardous: it appears on the EPA’s hazardous-waste list, or it isn’t listed but shows one or more hazardous characteristics. The four characteristics are ignitable, corrosive, reactive, and toxic. Ignitable wastes can catch fire easily (flash point under 60°C). Corrosive wastes have extreme pH values, either very acidic or very basic. Reactive wastes can detonate, explode, or vigorously release toxic gases. Toxic wastes contain constituents that can leach out and cause harm, as measured by tests like the TCLP. Because of these two pathways, the correct definition includes both listed wastes and wastes that possess hazardous characteristics. Choices that suggest only listed wastes, or that exclude characteristic wastes, don’t fit the EPA framework.