Which of the following is not a characteristic of hazardous waste according to the EPA?

The correct answer is based on the definition and characteristics that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) associates with hazardous waste. Hazardous waste is classified by specific characteristics that can make it dangerous to human health or the environment. These characteristics include toxicity, reactivity, and corrosivity.

Toxicity refers to the ability of a substance to cause harm to living organisms through exposure, and it is one of the most critical characteristics of hazardous waste. Reactivity indicates that a waste can undergo violent changes, such as explosions or the release of toxic gases, when subjected to certain conditions. Corrosivity describes the ability of a waste to corrode materials, including metals, which can lead to environmental hazards.

Friability, in contrast, does not constitute a characteristic used to define hazardous waste by the EPA. It generally refers to a material's tendency to crumble or break apart easily, which may not necessarily indicate a hazardous nature. Therefore, friability is not recognized as a defining characteristic of hazardous waste under EPA regulations. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effective waste management and compliance with environmental regulations.