Definition
Hazardous materials are materials which, because of their chemical, physical, or biological nature, pose a potential risk to life, health, or property when released. A release may occur by spilling, leaking, emitting toxic vapors, or any other process which enables the material to escape its container, enter the environment, and create a potential hazard. The hazard can be explosive, flammable, combustible, corrosive, reactive, poisonous, toxic, biological, and radioactive.
Safety Regulations
While the United States has a body of law governing the safe handling, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials, accidents can and do occur throughout the country on a regular basis.
Resources