What criteria are used to classify munitions as hazardous waste?

The classification of munitions as hazardous waste is based on specific criteria that assess their potential risks to human health and the environment. The correct answer identifies four key characteristics: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity.

• Ignitability refers to materials that can easily catch fire and sustain combustion. If munitions are likely to ignite under certain conditions, they pose a risk of fire hazards.

• Corrosivity pertains to substances that can corrode or damage materials or living tissues. Munitions that exhibit this property can cause environmental degradation and harm if they leak or are improperly disposed of.

• Reactivity involves the ability of munitions to undergo violent chemical reactions under normal conditions, potentially resulting in explosions or the release of harmful materials. This characteristic is critical in determining safe handling and storage practices.

• Toxicity indicates whether a material can be harmful or lethal when ingested or inhaled. Munitions containing toxic components may pose significant health risks to humans and wildlife if they are released into the environment.

These criteria are essential in the regulatory framework for hazardous waste management, as they help to identify materials that require special handling, treatment, and disposal to mitigate environmental and safety