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Safety & OSHAaka: hazmataka: hazardous substanceaka: dangerous goods

Hazardous Material

In Plain English

Any dangerous substance on a job site that can harm people or the environment.

Definition

A hazardous material is any substance that poses a risk to health, safety, or the environment due to its physical, chemical, or biological properties, including flammability, toxicity, corrosivity, or reactivity. On construction sites, hazardous materials include asbestos, lead paint, silica dust, solvents, and chemical products. Handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials are governed by OSHA, EPA, and state regulations.

Example

Before demolition began, an environmental consultant surveyed the building and identified asbestos-containing floor tile as a hazardous material requiring abatement.

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