SMC READY > BE INFORMED > Hazardous Materials

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

A hazardous material (commonly called "hazmat") is any solid, liquid, or gas that can harm people, other living organisms, property, or the environment. Risks associated with hazardous materials may require incorporating safety precautions during transport, use, storage, and disposal. Most countries regulate hazardous materials by law and are subject to several international treaties as well.

Persons who handle hazardous materials often wear protective equipment, and metropolitan fire departments may have a response team specifically trained to deal with accidents and spills. These teams train with different organizations.

Find out more about hazardous materials at OSHA.gov.

Download hazardous materials checklist from NFPA.

Hazard Maps and Information from the Association of Bay Area Governments.