How is hazardous waste classified under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)?

Hazardous waste is classified under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) based on its ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity. This classification method ensures a comprehensive evaluation of the characteristics that make a waste hazardous.

Ignitability refers to the ability of waste to easily catch fire under certain conditions, while corrosivity pertains to the tendency of a substance to corrode materials or living tissue. Reactivity reflects how a waste may react with water or other materials, potentially leading to dangerous reactions. Lastly, toxicity indicates the potential for harmful effects on human health and the environment when the waste is released or improperly managed.

This multifaceted approach allows regulators and handlers to identify hazards beyond just the chemical composition or source of the waste, which is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with environmental regulations. Understanding these characteristics helps in proper waste management, treatment, and disposal.