What condition allows a waste to be considered hazardous according to the EPA?

A waste is considered hazardous according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) when it exhibits certain characteristics, one of which is reactivity. Reactive wastes are those that are unstable under normal conditions and can cause explosions or release toxic gases when they come into contact with water or other materials. This characteristic poses significant risks to health and the environment, which is why reactivity is a critical factor in determining hazardous waste.

While properties like corrosiveness and viscosity are also important in identifying hazardous materials, reactivity specifically indicates a potential for such materials to engage in dangerous chemical reactions. Thus, when identifying hazardous waste, the inclusion of reactivity as a criterion emphasizes the importance of chemical behavior in ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards.