Ignitability is a hazardous waste characteristic. Which statement best describes an ignitable waste?

• A. A waste that is non-ignitable
• B. A waste with a flash point below 60 C
• C. A waste that is corrosive
• D. A waste that is toxic

Answer: (B)

Ignitability hinges on the tendency of a waste to produce flammable vapors that can ignite. The key measure is the flash point—the lowest temperature at which the waste releases enough vapor to form an ignitable mixture with air. If a waste has a flash point below 60 C, it can ignite under normal handling conditions, so it is classified as ignitable. That’s why the statement describing a waste with a flash point below 60 C is the best description of ignitable waste. Other waste traits describe different hazards—corrosive wastes relate to extreme pH and corrosivity, toxic wastes to potential leaching of hazardous constituents, and a non-ignitable waste simply doesn’t meet the ignitability criterion.