Hazardous materials are identified as substances that can:

The identification of hazardous materials as substances that can create harm to people or the environment aligns with the foundational principles of safety and regulation regarding hazardous materials. Hazardous materials encompass a broad range of substances that, when improperly handled, can cause physical injury, health risks, or environmental damage. This can include chemicals, biological agents, or other materials that have dangerous properties.

Understanding that a material is classified as hazardous based on its potential to cause harm is crucial in various contexts, including the workplace, transport, and emergency response scenarios. This classification is vital for implementing safety measures, regulations, and protocols designed to mitigate the risks associated with these substances.

The other options either limit the scope of hazardous materials to specific settings or conditions or imply that certain hazardous materials are benign unless ignited, which misrepresents the broader understanding of hazards associated with these materials. Therefore, the recognition of hazardous materials as those that create harm underpins safety practices, regulatory frameworks, and emergency preparedness strategies.