Final answer:
The hazard class of hazardous materials is indicated by classification systems such as the NFPA's hazard diamond, which conveys safety information through color-coded ratings for flammability, health hazards, and reactivity. The EPA regulates hazardous waste including listed, characteristic, and mixed wastes based on their properties and potential dangers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hazard Class of Hazardous Materials
The hazard class of hazardous materials, often referred to as dangerous goods, is indicated through various classification systems, including labels and hazard diamonds. One such system is the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 704 Hazard Identification System. This system details a substance's potential dangers, including flammability, reactivity, and health hazards using a color-coded diamond with each aspect rated on a scale from 0 to 4.
Hazardous Waste Under EPA Regulation
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees the regulations for the treatment, storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials. The hazardous waste can be classified as listed wastes, characteristic wastes, or mixed wastes. Listed wastes are specifically enumerated in the EPA's regulations, while characteristic wastes are identified by properties such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. Mixed wastes possess both hazardous chemical and radioactive components.
The Function of the Hazard Diamond
The hazard diamond, or fire diamond, is a visual aid found on containers of chemicals and provides a summary of various dangers. The red (top) diamond indicates fire hazard levels, the blue (left) diamond shows the level of health hazard, the yellow (right) diamond describes the chemical's reactivity, and the white (bottom) diamond points out special hazards like oxidizers, corrosiveness, or radioactivity. Each hazard is rated to provide essential safety information quickly to those handling these substances.