Which statement correctly defines hazardous waste?

Which statement correctly defines hazardous waste?

• A. Any waste stream that affects human mortality.
• B. A hazardous waste is any solid waste that is listed as a HW or exhibits the characteristics of a hazardous waste.
• C. Only wastes that are ignitable.
• D. A waste that is generated by homes.

Answer: (B)

Hazardous waste is defined by regulatory criteria, not by a single symptom. A solid waste is considered hazardous if it appears on a hazardous-waste listing or if it exhibits one or more hazardous characteristics. The listing covers wastes known to be hazardous by their identity, while the characteristics include ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic properties as determined by specific tests. This broad definition explains why a waste isn’t hazardous just because it affects health or mortality in general, and it isn’t limited to ignitable wastes or to waste generated by homes.

Hazardous waste is defined by regulatory criteria, not by a single symptom. A solid waste is considered hazardous if it appears on a hazardous-waste listing or if it exhibits one or more hazardous characteristics. The listing covers wastes known to be hazardous by their identity, while the characteristics include ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic properties as determined by specific tests. This broad definition explains why a waste isn’t hazardous just because it affects health or mortality in general, and it isn’t limited to ignitable wastes or to waste generated by homes.