What type of materials are classified by their hazard class?

The classification of materials by their hazard class is fundamentally about identifying hazardous materials based on their risk levels. Hazardous materials are categorized into specific classes that indicate the type of danger they may pose, such as flammability, toxicity, corrosiveness, or reactivity. This classification system is essential for ensuring proper handling, transportation, and emergency response, allowing responders and handlers to understand the potential risks associated with these materials.

In contrast, non-hazardous items do not fall under the same regulatory requirements that hazardous materials must adhere to and are, therefore, not classified by hazard class. Similarly, the classification does not apply to every item transported in bulk as many bulk items may be non-hazardous or only require different handling. Additionally, while flammable materials are a significant category of hazardous materials, the hazard classification includes a broader range of hazards beyond just flammability, encompassing various other risk types. Thus, the classification based on risk levels encompasses not only flammable materials but a wide variety of hazardous substances, making the understanding of risk level classifications vital for safety and compliance.