Which of the following is a common feature of hazardous materials?

A common feature of hazardous materials is that they pose an unreasonable risk to health. This characteristic underscores the potential dangers associated with exposure to hazardous substances, which can include toxic chemicals, biological agents, and radiological materials. The primary concern in handling hazardous materials is to minimize the risk of harm to individuals, communities, and the environment. This risk can manifest in various ways, including acute health effects from immediate exposure and long-term consequences resulting from cumulative exposure.

The health risks posed by these materials require strict regulations and safety protocols to ensure that responders, workers, and the public are adequately protected. Understanding this risk is fundamental in emergency response planning and in establishing control measures to mitigate the impact of hazardous materials incidents.

While high cost, accessibility to the public, and high visibility may apply to some hazardous materials in specific contexts, they do not universally define the nature of hazardous materials as effectively as the health risk they pose. Thus, focusing on the health risks helps emphasize the critical nature of understanding and addressing hazardous materials in emergency response.