How is hazardous material defined?

The definition of hazardous material focuses on the potential dangers these materials present to health and safety. When a material is labeled as hazardous, it indicates that it poses an unreasonable risk if mishandled or improperly stored. This assessment is critical in fire inspection practices because it helps inspectors identify materials that require special attention, handling, and storage protocols to mitigate risks associated with fire hazards, toxic exposure, and environmental damage. By prioritizing these materials, fire safety personnel can implement appropriate precautions to protect individuals and property from the adverse effects of exposure to harmful substances. In contrast, materials defined in other options do not capture the inherent risks that make a substance hazardous. For example, a low-risk material or one that is only controlled during storage does not necessarily pose immediate dangers, while materials that are easy to dispose of do not imply any hazards themselves.