What do we call substances that pose an unreasonable risk to health, safety, or property?

The term that describes substances posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, or property is "hazardous materials." This classification encompasses a wide range of substances that can cause harm through various means, including toxicity, reactivity, and environmental impact. Hazardous materials are identified based on the potential to cause adverse effects in human health, safety, and property if not handled properly.

Toxic materials specifically refer to substances that can cause harm through exposure, but this term is more narrowly focused on the properties of specific chemicals rather than the broader implications of risk associated with all hazardous materials. Controlled substances relate to drugs and chemicals that are regulated under laws due to their potential for abuse, rather than broadly indicating risk. Dangerous goods typically refer to items classified under transport regulations and may not encompass all aspects of risk beyond transport.

Thus, hazardous materials is the most comprehensive term that aligns with the definition of substances that pose unreasonable risks.