Types of Hazardous Waste
Hazardous waste is classified into several types based on its characteristics. The main categories include ignitable waste, which can easily catch fire; corrosive waste, which can corrode materials or living tissue; and reactive waste, which can cause explosions or release toxic gases when mixed with other substances. Additionally, toxic waste contains harmful chemicals that can pose serious health risks to humans and the environment.
Another important category is listed waste, which is specifically identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as hazardous. This includes waste from certain industries, such as manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, that contain harmful substances. Proper management and disposal of these types of hazardous waste are crucial to protect public health and the environment.