Which material is commonly classified as a hazardous substance in health settings?

In health settings, materials are classified as hazardous substances based on their potential to cause harm to human health or the environment. Pesticides are commonly classified as hazardous substances because they are designed to kill pests and can be toxic to humans and other non-target organisms if mishandled. They often contain chemicals that pose risks when inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with skin, which is particularly concerning in healthcare environments where vulnerability is higher.

In contrast, while glass can be a safety hazard due to the risk of cuts, and rubber and paper waste may pose environmental concerns, they do not typically carry the same level of direct toxicity or hazardous classification associated with health risks as pesticides do. Pesticides require careful handling, storage, and disposal to mitigate their risks, making them a prime example of a hazardous substance in healthcare settings.