Characteristic Wastes

Unlike listed wastes, these characteristic wastes follow the identification process depending on the characteristics they display. Below are the four characteristics that are identified with wastes.

1. Ignitability

• Any waste that is flammable and can create fires.
• Examples of this include liquids with flashpoints below 140 °F, nonliquids with the potential to ignite via specific conditions and compressed gases.

2. Corrosivity

• Any waste (typically acids and bases) that can rust and decompose and has the ability to melt through steel materials.
• Examples of this include aqueous wastes with an acidity level of equal to or less than 2 pH or equal to or greater than 12.5 pH.

3. Reactivity

• Any waste that is explosive, unstable under normal conditions.
• Examples of this include any waste capable of explosion and detonation that may produce toxic gases.

4. Toxicity

• Any waste that is fatally poisonous when ingested or absorbed.
• Examples of this include lithium-sulfur batteries and other materials that can cause death when swallowed.

There are tests available through certified laboratories that will determine the characteristic traits of wastes to deem the type of hazardous waste that it is. In order to properly manage wastes, you must consult with an accredited laboratory like EHS.

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