Which of the following best describes a "hazardous substance"?

A "hazardous substance" is best described as a substance that poses a risk to health or safety. This definition encompasses a wide range of materials that can cause harm to individuals, the environment, or both when they are improperly managed or handled. Hazardous substances include chemicals that can be toxic, corrosive, flammable, or otherwise dangerous under specific conditions. Awareness of these risks is crucial for implementing safety measures and protective protocols in workplaces and other environments to minimize exposure and prevent accidents.

In contrast, other descriptions provided do not accurately reflect the characteristics of hazardous substances. For example, claiming that a hazardous substance is always safe to handle or requires no special precautions fundamentally contradicts the definition, as these substances are inherently associated with risks that necessitate careful management. Additionally, indicating that hazardous substances are only found in specific workplaces is misleading because many hazardous substances can be present in a variety of settings, not limited to certain environments.