What components are tested to determine if waste is hazardous?

To determine if waste is hazardous, it is essential to evaluate specific properties of the waste material that can indicate its potential dangers. The components tested—ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity—are critical because they provide a comprehensive assessment of the waste's characteristics that could pose risks to human health and the environment.

Ignitability refers to how easily the waste can catch fire, which is crucial for preventing fire hazards. Corrosivity assesses whether the material can corrode metal containers or cause burns to skin, indicating potential dangers in handling or storage. Reactivity evaluates whether the waste can chemically react with other substances, leading to potential explosions or the release of toxic gases. Lastly, toxicity measures the harmful effects the waste might have on health and the environment if it leaches into soil or water.

By focusing on these four components, regulators can effectively categorize waste and manage disposal practices appropriately to minimize risks associated with hazardous substances. The other options mentioned—flammability, color and texture, and weight and volume—do not provide a complete or adequate framework for assessing hazardous waste.