Other Definitions
hazmat (dict)
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HazmatHAZMAT is an abbreviation of Hazardous Material. Hazardous materials are any substances (solids, liquids, or gases) that are dangerous to the well-being of humans, animals, or the environment. This danger can come either from explosivity, radioactivity, toxicity, or other ill-desired properties. As such, they are often handled with great care, especially regarding their disposal or storage. Because of the danger involved in the handling of hazardous materials, the equipment involved is designed and colored distinctively, introducing terms such as "HAZMAT team" and "HAZMAT suit" into the English language. As a safety precaution, all hazardous materials are assigned a unique ID number (registered with the United Nations), with associated handling protocols and procedures. These unique IDs are especially useful for tracking the shipping of such materials, and speeding their cleanup. Due to the increased threat of terrorism in the early 21st century, funding for greater HAZMAT-handling capabilities was increased throughout the United States, in recognition of the fact that poisonous, explosive, or radioactive substances- as well as deadly biowarfare germs- made attractive vectors for terrorist attacks. External links
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